A natural-looking refresh from a dentist who knows the face anatomy in her sleep.
A Refresh That Still Looks Like You
What cosmetic Botox does
Botox softens the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by relaxing the muscles that create them. The most common areas are the forehead, the area between the eyebrows (the “11 lines”), and the crow’s feet at the corners of the eyes. Done well, it makes you look more rested without freezing your expression. Done poorly, it shows.
Why a dentist?
Dentists train extensively on the anatomy of the head and neck the same muscles and nerves involved in facial Botox placement. Dr. Tatum has been working with this anatomy for decades and was one of the first providers in Charleston to offer Botox in a dental setting. The local Allergan representatives come to her for their own injections. That tells you something.
Three brands, depending on your case
We offer Botox, Daxify, and Xeomin. Each is FDA-approved and each has slightly different characteristics — onset time, how it spreads, how the result feels. We choose the right product for your case based on the area, your goals, and what has worked for you in the past. Most patients have a strong preference once they have tried different options.
What is Cosmetic Botox?
Botox is the use of botulinum toxin injections to relax facial muscles that cause expression lines and wrinkles. As a dentist, Dr. Tatum has spent decades studying head and neck anatomy the foundation for precise, natural-looking placement.
Does Botox hurt?
The injections are quick and most patients describe them as a small pinch. We use the smallest needles available and place them precisely. There is no real downtime most patients go right back to their day. Some patients have a little redness or pinpoint bruising at the injection sites that fades quickly.
How fast will I see results?
Most patients start to see softening within three to seven days, with full effect at about two weeks. We recommend coming in for a brief follow-up around the two-week mark for any small adjustments. We always under-treat first it is easier to add a little than to take it away.
See Why Charleston Loves Us
➔ Two kind and highly-skilled dentists
➔ Decades of experience
➔ A team that’s been together a long time
➔ Personal care with your comfort in mind
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I look frozen or expressionless?
Not when it is done right. The goal is to relax overactive muscles enough to soften lines without erasing your expression. We tend to under-treat at first and have you back for a touch-up if you want more — that approach keeps results looking natural. We will not push for more treatment than your face needs.
What is the difference between Botox, Daxify, and Xeomin?
All three are FDA-approved botulinum toxin products. They have slight differences in onset, spread, and how the result feels — but the underlying mechanism is the same. We choose the right product for your case based on the area, your history, and your preference. We will explain the differences at your visit.
Can Botox be combined with fillers or TMJ Botox?
Yes — and often it should be. Dermal fillers address volume loss; cosmetic Botox addresses muscle activity; TMJ Botox Fillers addresses jaw pain and grinding. They do different things and many patients combine them. We will plan a balanced treatment that does not overdo any one thing.
Why do dentists do Botox now?
Because dentists have always trained on this anatomy — the muscles and nerves of the face, head, and neck were part of dental school. As cosmetic and therapeutic Botox have become more widely accepted, dentists have become some of the most qualified providers. It is, as Dr. Tatum says, our domain.
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