Neuromodulators
A Neuromodulator is a type of substance used to alter nerve activity in the muscles, reducing contractions and relaxing specific areas for therapeutic treatments such as bruxism and also for aesthetic purposes.
IMPORTANT INFO
Bruxism is an involuntary and repetitive habit of grinding or clenching the teeth, which causes the surfaces of the upper and lower teeth to constantly rub together.
This behavior can cause joint pain, discomfort near the temples and muscle tension in the cheeks, where the masseter muscle, responsible for chewing, is located.
It also wears down the teeth and generates a slight sound that often goes unnoticed by the sufferer, but not by those around them. The persistent sound is the result of continuous friction between the teeth.
The causes of bruxism may vary from person to person and situation to situation. Some of the main ones are:
- Stress: In stressful situations, some people grind and clench their teeth unconsciously during the night as a way of expressing their concern.
- Neurological diseases: Although less common, some pathologies of the nervous system can affect the transmission of neuronal signals to the facial muscles, altering chewing. An example of this is stroke.
- Temperature and climate: In cold conditions, muscle movements generate heat. When grinding teeth, the body activates a defense mechanism to accelerate metabolism and produce heat.
- Joint dysfunction: In some cases, the temporomandibular joint does not function properly without an apparent specific cause.
Neuromodulators are substances produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Although this bacterium can be toxic, medicine and aesthetics have taken advantage of its properties to develop safe and effective treatments. Neuromodulators act at the neuromuscular junction, connecting neurons with muscle tissue to control contraction and block the connection. In this way, bruxism can be prevented by inhibiting excessive contraction of the masticatory muscles.
The use of small amounts of neuromodulators offers both health and cosmetic benefits by slowing down and blocking nerve signals, preventing muscle contraction. In addition to treating bruxism, they are also effective in reducing wrinkles and fine lines, controlling excess underarm sweating and managing certain facial tics such as involuntary blinking.
During treatment of bruxism, neuromodulators are injected into the masseter muscle, relieving the pressure caused by involuntary clenching and grinding of the teeth. This also helps eliminate secondary pain in the jaw, neck and head.
Injections are given on both sides of the jaw, evenly, and local anesthesia is used to minimize discomfort during the procedure, although it is generally almost painless. In addition, by relaxing the masseter muscle, the facial expression is softened, providing a more relaxed and attractive appearance.
SPECIALIST IN NEUROMODULATORS
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Endodontics
Periodontics Treatment
Orthodontics
Advanced Dental Surgery
Dental Hygiene