Uso da toxina botulínica para fins terapêuticos na odontologia : uma revisão de literatura.

Abstract

Botulinum toxin type A is a medicine obtained through the bacterium clostridium botulinum that in its mechanism of action blocks the release of acetylcholine, causing the relaxation of the muscles where it is applied. With the great advances in the research regarding the use of botulinum toxin type A in the aesthetic area within Dentistry, it was observed the need for a study that better evaluated its use for therapeutic purposes in this field. From this, a literature review was conducted to evaluate its effectiveness in some treatments, such as: temporomandibular dysfunction, symptoms associated with bruxism, masseter muscle hypertrophy and sialorrhea. Through the evaluated works, it was observed that the results were satisfactory in the majority of cases, however, there is a need for reapplication, since it is reabsorbed by the organism within 4 to 6 months after its first application. Still, further studies with a larger sample are needed to better understand the effects of botulinum toxin for various treatments.