Botox® is best known as a skin care treatment many people use to reduce wrinkles and achieve a smooth, youthful look. It’s not simply a cosmetic treatment, however. The drug weakens or paralyzes muscles for several months to a year, which makes it ideal for treating or managing a variety of health complications without surgery or more serious care.

3 Medical Conditions That Benefit From Botox

1. Overactive Bladder

An overactive bladder can make it difficult to sleep and relax in social situations. It can be caused by a number of issues ranging from involuntary bladder contractions to neurological conditions. Some patients are prescribed Botox for temporary relief. By injecting it into the walls of the bladder, patients won’t have the urge to use the restroom as often during the day and will be able to sleep uninterrupted at night.

2. Teeth Grinding

Botox also has dental applications. Bruxism, also known as teeth grinding, is a common issue in which people clench their teeth throughout the day or while they’re asleep. Gradually, they’ll wear down their enamel, which can lead to decay reaching the vulnerable inner pulp of the teeth. Botox reduces grinding by weakening the muscles around the mouth, which may also lessen headaches and difficulty sleeping related to bruxism.

3. Cervical Dystonia

Cervical dystonia is a neurological condition that causes involuntary spasms in the neck and shoulder muscles. It can be extremely painful and manifest at any age. There’s no cure for the condition, but Botox can help reduce the contractions. Injecting all of the affected muscles with Botox will reduce activity; it blocks chemical messages sent from the brain to cause the contractions.

If you’re interested in the applications of Botox for cosmetic purposes, turn to Dr. David K. Hiranaka, MD, DMD, of Kailua-Kona, HI. Voted the Best of West Hawaii in 2018 for facial and body treatments and one of the best dentists in Hawaii in 2018, he provides superior service to his patients. Dr. Hiranaka offers a number of skin care services and uses the latest technologies like truSculpt 3D and RF laser treatments to achieve the best results. You can explore his offerings online, or call (808) 326-2040 to schedule a consultation.