BOTULINUM TOXIN IN DENTISTRY: CURRENT APPLICATIONS AND FUTURE PERSPECTIVES

Abstract

Botulinum toxin type A (BoNT-A), a neuroparalytic agent produced by Clostridium botulinum, has found increasing utilization in various branches of medicine, including dermatology, neurology, ophthalmology, and more recently, dentistry. Owing to its mechanism of action — the inhibition of acetylcholine release at presynaptic terminals — BoNT-A induces temporary chemodenervation of targeted muscles. This property makes it a valuable adjunct in managing a range of functional and aesthetic conditions affecting the orofacial region. This review outlines the principal clinical indications, pharmacological action, injection protocols, contraindications, and potential adverse effects associated with BoNT-A in dental practice. Particular emphasis is placed on its use in the treatment of bruxism, temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD), sialorrhea, gummy smile, and trigeminal neuralgia. When applied in accordance with standardized guidelines, botulinum toxin offers a safe, effective, and minimally invasive alternative to conventional surgical or pharmacological interventions.