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BotoxFAQ
Common questions about Botox: therapeutic uses for TMJ and jaw clenching, cosmetic treatments, pricing, and what to expect at Smile Pop.
How much does Botox cost in NYC?
At Smile Pop, Botox is $17 per unit. Most cosmetic areas (forehead, 11s, crow’s feet) cost $170–$510. Therapeutic Botox for TMJ and jaw clenching typically requires 40–60 units and costs $680–$1,020. Lip flip and gummy smile correction are available as flat-fee services.
What is Botox made of?
Botox Cosmetic (onabotulinumtoxinA) is a purified protein derived from Clostridium botulinum bacteria. Smile Pop also offers Xeomin (incobotulinumtoxinA), another FDA-approved neurotoxin. In the highly diluted doses used medically, both are safe and effective for cosmetic and therapeutic uses.
What does Botox do?
Botox temporarily relaxes targeted muscles by blocking nerve signals. Cosmetically, this smooths lines and wrinkles. Therapeutically, it reduces jaw tension, alleviates TMJ pain, decreases teeth grinding, and can slim the masseter (jaw) muscle.
Can Botox help with TMJ?
Yes. Botox injected into the masseter and surrounding jaw muscles significantly reduces pain, tension, and clenching associated with TMJ disorder. Results typically last 3–6 months. Smile Pop specializes in therapeutic Botox for TMJ and jaw-related conditions.
Can Botox help with jaw clenching and teeth grinding?
Yes. Botox is one of the most effective treatments for bruxism (teeth grinding) and jaw clenching. By relaxing the masseter muscle, it reduces the force of clenching and protects teeth from further wear.
Does Botox hurt?
Most patients describe the injections as a small pinch. We have patients apply ice before injections to help minimize any discomfort. Botox needles are very fine, and sessions are brief. There is no downtime afterward.
How long does Botox last?
Botox results typically last 3–6 months for both cosmetic and therapeutic treatments. First-time patients may notice results lasting closer to 3 months; with regular maintenance, results often extend longer.
When does Botox start working?
Botox begins to take effect within 5–7 days. Full results are visible at 2 weeks. If a touch-up is needed, it can be done at a follow-up appointment.
What happens when Botox wears off?
As Botox wears off, the treated muscles gradually regain their movement and tone. Lines and wrinkles may return to their previous state, and therapeutic effects such as jaw pain relief will diminish. Most patients schedule maintenance every 3–6 months.
Can Botox cause a headache?
A mild headache after Botox is possible, typically resolving within 24 hours. Botox is also used to treat chronic migraines and tension headaches. In those cases, it is expected to reduce headache frequency over time.
Can Botox help under eye bags?
Botox can soften the appearance of fine lines around the eyes (crow’s feet) and in some cases reduce the appearance of under-eye puffiness by relaxing the lower orbicularis oculi muscle. However, significant under-eye bags due to fat prolapse are better addressed with fillers or surgery.
What is masseter Botox?
Masseter Botox refers to injections into the masseter muscle (the large chewing muscle on each side of the jaw). It is used to treat TMJ, reduce teeth grinding, relieve jaw pain, and slim a wide or square jawline. It is one of the most popular and effective uses of Botox.
Will Botox get rid of forehead wrinkles?
Yes. Forehead lines caused by repeated muscle movement respond very well to Botox. The treatment relaxes the frontalis muscle, smoothing horizontal lines across the forehead. Results appear within one to two weeks.
Will Botox help turkey neck?
Botox injected into the platysmal bands of the neck (sometimes called a Nefertiti lift) can soften the vertical cords that appear with age. It is a non-surgical option for mild to moderate neck banding.
Is Botox covered by insurance?
Cosmetic Botox is not covered by insurance. Therapeutic Botox for TMJ, chronic migraine, or jaw clenching may be covered depending on your plan. Contact your insurance provider to confirm.
Can I use FSA or HSA for Botox?
Therapeutic Botox administered by a licensed healthcare provider is generally an eligible FSA/HSA expense. Cosmetic Botox typically is not. Confirm eligibility with your FSA or HSA administrator.
Who administers Botox at Smile Pop?
Botox at Smile Pop is administered by Dr. Courtney Barry, a board-certified orthodontist. Dr. Barry has advanced training in facial anatomy, making her highly qualified to deliver precise, effective Botox injections in the face and jaw.
How soon before an event should I get Botox?
We recommend scheduling Botox at least two weeks before a major event so results have fully settled. Avoid any event within the first 24 hours of treatment in case of minor bruising or swelling.
Do I need to be an existing patient to get Botox at Smile Pop?
No. Botox at Smile Pop is open to all patients. No existing orthodontic treatment is required. Book online and select Botox & Aesthetics.
What is the best age to start Botox?
There is no single right age. Many patients begin cosmetic Botox in their late 20s to early 30s as a preventive measure. Therapeutic Botox for TMJ or jaw clenching is appropriate at any age when symptoms are present.

