Tampa dentist says Botox treatments are life changing for some patients

TAMPA, Fla. - When patients go to see their dentist it's not always for teeth cleanings, sometimes it's for Botox.

"Oh, I have grinding, clenching muscle fatigue, lock jaw. So that's the reason I get it," said Natalie Burkette.

"It's going to help relax that muscle. It reprograms the muscle to be in a more relaxed position. So then when you're grinding, and you're clenching, you're not going to be able to contract that muscle so much," explained Dr. Maureen Georgy of Ideal Dentistry.

READ: Mental health advocates pushing for more resources in the Tampa Bay Area

Dr. Georgy said while some may be surprised to hear about dentists using Botox, it's actually a natural fit.

Dr. Maureen Georgy of Ideal Dentistry said Botox works for some patients.

"We're so well experienced with this, with the functions of the muscles of the head and neck," said Dr. Georgy.

Burkette said for her, Botox was a better option than other treatments.

"There is massage. You could take muscle relaxers for the pressure on the teeth. You could do like a night guard. But I do it all day long, so I need something that helps alleviate what I do," shared Burkette.

The procedures can be fairly quick, and the needles are small.

The needles are small and relatively painless.

"It's like not even a pinch," explained Dr. Georgy.

"Relatively painless," said Burkette.

READ: Popular weight loss drugs linked to severe stomach problems: 'Critical information for patients'

Burkette hopes these treatments save her from more pain and discomfort in the future.

"The more you take it, like, you know, hopefully it'll relax your muscles long term, so I won't have to do it every three to four months," said Burkette.

"My patients feel like this is life changing because they are not in pain. They're actually able to eat and function. Every patient I've done this on, they've loved it and seen so many benefits," shared Dr. Georgy.