Botox and Fillers

Feeling self-conscious about having wrinkles or sunken cheeks can negatively impact your self-esteem and self-confidence. Ellen Brodsky, DDS, Andrew Schliep, DDS, and the team at Art and Dentistry in Bethesda, Maryland, administer careful injections of Botox® and fillers to make small but significant changes to your aging appearance. To see what Botox or fillers can do for you, call Art and Dentistry today.

Are Botox and fillers the same thing?

It’s a common misconception that Botox and fillers are the same. Though they have a few similarities and can reach several of the same goals, the two injectable aesthetic treatments are quite different and work in different ways. Here are their differences:

Botox

Botox® is the name-brand version of an injectable neurotoxin called botulinum toxin. It comes from bacteria and can harm your health in large amounts. In small amounts, however, it can make controlled changes to your muscle movements. Specifically, small doses of injected botulinum toxin can temporarily prevent the muscle movements that form the fine lines on your face.

Fillers

Fillers work by adding volume to your face or hands. Your body absorbs the thick substances over the course of several months to over a year, gradually diminishing your results. 

How can Botox and fillers improve my appearance?

Botox specializes in dynamic wrinkles and lines. Dynamic wrinkles and lines are a specific type that shows up slowly over time the more you move your face. Examples of dynamic wrinkles treatable with Botox are:

• Crow’s feet
• Forehead ridges
• Frown lines
• Lipstick lines
• Chin dimples

Fillers can also treat wrinkles by adding volume. Additionally, they can give you:

• Fuller cheeks
• Plump lips
• Improved facial symmetry
• Diminished scars

If you have other minor concerns about your facial features, Loreen can tell you whether Botox or fillers can make the changes you want to see.

Am I a good candidate for Botox and filler injections?

The team at Art and Dentistry provides you with a thorough evaluation of your health and goals before directing you to Botox or fillers as treatment. They may decide that you’re a candidate for either or both injectable drugs if you:

• Are over 18
• Don’t smoke
• Feel unhappy about age-related facial changes
• Have realistic expectations
• Are mentally and physically healthy

If Botox and fillers can’t help you reach your goals or if you aren’t currently a candidate, the team helps guide you to other solutions that are a better fit for you.

If you strive for a more youthful appearance and want to give Botox or fillers a try, call Art and Dentistry today.