Effective applications of botulinum toxin in dentistry and in head and neck surgery

What is it about?

Background: Botulinum toxin A and B is approved for the treatment of many diseases, and we can read many papers experimenting with other possibilities. The use of botulinum toxin is a relatively new option with little or no pre-gradual training in dentistry. Objective: This article aims to summarise current knowledge in this emerging field.Data Sources: A search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, bibliographies of published systematic reviews was performed, as well as of the Cochrane trial registries between 1966 and June 10, 2016. Study Selection: Randomized controlled trials comparing botulinum toxin A with placebo or other interventions were preferred, but for many emerging indication we used non-randomized studies as well to inspire further studies.Data Extraction: Data were abstracted and quality assessed by 1 reviewer. Data Synthesis: We have little-randomised data to quantify the effect of botulinum toxin in a majority of indications in dentistry precisely. Conclusion: The rapid development of the botulinum toxin application brings new possibilities for treatment by dentists alone or in cooperation with other specialists. Besides the above-verified evidence-based indications, there are new and new case studies quickly appearing that need to be monitored and possibly applied. But we have very few randomised studies to make final guidelines in many indications, so further scientific works are really needed. Botulinum toxin should be part of undergraduate and postgraduate teaching.Keywords: botulinum toxin, dentistry, dermatology, neurology, psychiatry.

Featured Image