You have been thinking about it for a while. Maybe you noticed a few forehead lines that were not there before, or a friend mentioned how refreshed they looked after their appointment. Whatever brought you here, if you are considering Botox for the first time, you probably have questions.

Here is everything you need to know before you book.

What Is Botox & How Does It Work?

Botox is made from a purified protein that temporarily relaxes the facial muscles responsible for wrinkles and fine lines. When those muscles stop contracting, the skin above them smooths out.

It is one of the most popular cosmetic treatments in the world for a reason. It is quick, minimally invasive, and requires zero downtime. Most people are in and out in under 30 minutes.

What Can Botox Actually Treat?

This is where a lot of first-timers are surprised. Botox does a lot more than forehead lines. Common treatment areas include:

• Forehead wrinkles and frown lines
• Crow’s feet around the eyes
• Smoker’s lines around the mouth
• Bunny lines on the sides of the nose
• Lip flip for a fuller upper lip appearance
• Gummy smile reduction
• Dimpled chin
• Downturned corners of the mouth

Botox for TMJ: More Than a Cosmetic Treatment

One of the most surprising uses of Botox is for TMJ disorders and jaw tension. When injected into the masseter muscles, Botox temporarily reduces the intensity of muscle contractions that cause jaw clenching, grinding, and chronic tension headaches.

For patients who have tried mouth guards or other treatments without relief, Botox offers a minimally invasive alternative that can make a real difference in day-to-day comfort. Results typically last 3 to 4 months, and many patients notice significant pain reduction within a week or two of treatment.

It is also worth noting that dentists are uniquely qualified to administer Botox for TMJ. Their in-depth knowledge of jaw anatomy, muscle structure, and nerve pathways makes them some of the most precise providers for this type of treatment.

What to Do Before Your First Botox Appointment

A little preparation goes a long way. Here is what to keep in mind before you go in:

Avoid Blood Thinners Beforehand

Skip aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, and alcohol for a few days before your appointment if possible. These can increase the chance of bruising at the injection site.

Come with a Clean Face

Skip heavy makeup or skincare products on the day of your appointment. Your provider will clean the area before injecting anyway, but arriving with a fresh face makes the process smoother.

Know What You Want but Stay Open

Come in with an idea of what bothers you most, but be ready to have a real conversation. A good provider will look at your face as a whole and recommend a treatment plan tailored to your goals, not just check boxes.

What Happens During a Botox Treatment?

The actual treatment is faster than most people expect. Your provider will mark the injection points, clean the area, and use a very fine needle to administer the Botox. Most people describe the sensation as a small pinch.

Depending on how many areas you are treating, the whole process typically takes between 10 and 20 minutes. No anesthesia is needed, and you can drive yourself home.

What to Expect After Botox

The First Few Days

You may notice some mild redness, swelling, or small bumps at the injection sites. This is completely normal and usually fades within a few hours. Avoid rubbing or massaging the treated areas and skip intense workouts for 24 hours.

When Will You See Results?

Botox does not work instantly. Most people start to notice a difference within 3 to 5 days, with full results visible around the two-week mark. First-time patients are often surprised by how natural the results look.

How Long Does Botox Last?

Results typically last between 3 and 4 months. With consistent treatments over time, many patients find their results last longer as the muscles gradually become less active.

Why Patients Choose Russo Family Dentistry & Aesthetics for Botox

Dentists are actually some of the most qualified providers for facial Botox. They spend years studying facial anatomy, nerve pathways, and muscle structure in a level of detail most providers never reach. That expertise translates directly into more precise, natural-looking results.

Dr. Russo and the team at Russo Family Dentistry & Aesthetics in Metairie take a personalized approach to every treatment. No frozen faces, no one-size-fits-all plans. Just honest consultations and results that look like you, only refreshed.

Book Your Botox Consultation at Russo Family Dentistry & Aesthetics in Metairie

If you have been on the fence, a consultation is the best first step. It is low pressure, and it gives you the chance to ask every question you have before committing to anything.

Book Your Appointment