Botox in Periodontics: A Paradigm Shift in Treatment Modalities - A Questionnaire Based Study

Background Botulinum toxin a neurotoxin produced by Clostridium botulinum is potentially lethal but has proven therapeutic benefits in both medical and dental practice.Aim This study aimed to assess the knowledge and awareness of botulinum toxin BTX as an alternative treatment for gummy smile and its application in periodontics.Methods The survey involved 264 participants comprising periodontists and postgraduate students specializing in periodontics from Bangalore who completed an online questionnaire via Google Forms. The questionnaire consisted of 15 questions with five questions each related to practice knowledge and attitude.Results The study found that the mean scores for knowledge attitude and practice were 4.68plusmn0.91 4.69plusmn0.79 and 4.46plusmn0.95 respectively. No statistically significant differences were observed in the mean scores of knowledge attitude or practice between postgraduate students and periodontists with P values of 0.85 0.52 and 0.52 respectively.Conclusion Overall the study revealed an adequate level of knowledge and awareness regarding the use of BTX as an alternative treatment for gummy smile among both groups. However further research is required to better understand the use of BTX in periodontics.