THE EMERGING ROLE OF BOTULINUM TOXIN IN THE TREATMENT OF OROFACIAL DISORDERS: LITERATURE UPDATE

Abstract

Botulinum toxin (BTX) is a lethal neurotoxin produced by Gram-positive anaerobic bacterium called Clostridium botulinum. It is the first toxin used fortherapeutic purposes since 1989. BTX treatment is relatively safe and efficacious, less invasive, conservative, and the effects are faster and reversible.The purpose of this article is to review the literature regarding the applications of BTX in the treatment of various orofacial disorders, their mechanismof action, contraindications, and complications. From the recently published literature, it is clear that the role of BTX as a therapeutic agent for severalconditions is expanding. With the training of BTX-A injection techniques and adequate knowledge about treatment protocols, general dentists cansafely administer BTX injections. The ability to use Botox as an adjuvant and primary mode of the treatment for various maxillofacial disorders offersexciting treatment options for dentists and patients in the future.