The honest answer to “how much does Botox cost?” is that it depends on what is being treated, which product is used and how much of it your muscles need. At Shield Dental Care in Burke, VA, we give you a price at your consultation, before any treatment, so you can decide with the number in front of you. This page explains what goes into that number and how to compare quotes fairly. For an overview of the treatment itself, see our Botox page.
What decides the cost
The areas treated
Each area is a different set of muscles. Frown lines, forehead lines and crow’s feet each need their own dose, and treating two or three areas at one visit costs more than treating one. The jaw muscles used in treatment for grinding and clenching are much larger than the small muscles of the brow, so their dose is planned separately.
The product
We carry BOTOX® Cosmetic, Dysport and Daxxify. The product affects the price, and one that lasts longer may cost more per treatment but need fewer treatments a year. The fairer comparison is often the cost over a year, not the cost of a single visit.
The dose
Two people treating the same area may need different doses. Stronger, larger muscles generally need more product, and how much movement you want to keep also affects the dose. The FDA labels give standard doses for approved areas, but your dentist will recommend a dose for your muscles.
Why per-unit prices cannot be compared across brands
Botox, Dysport and Daxxify are measured in units, but each manufacturer defines its unit with its own test, and each label states that its units cannot be compared with or converted into another product’s. The approved dose for frown lines is 20 units of BOTOX Cosmetic, 50 units of Dysport and 40 units of Daxxify. That does not mean Dysport is a bigger dose, and it means a lower price per unit of one brand tells you nothing about whether it is cheaper than another. Our article on Botox vs Dysport vs Daxxify explains the differences.
Per-area or per-unit pricing
Providers usually price in one of two ways:
- Per unit. You pay for the number of units used. It is transparent about the amount of product, but the total is only clear once the dose is decided.
- Per area. You pay a set price to treat an area, such as frown lines. It is simpler to budget for, but it is worth asking what dose is included and what happens if you need more.
Either way, the useful question is the same: what will the whole treatment cost, in total?
What a quote should include
When you compare prices, here or anywhere else, ask what is included:
- Which product, which areas, and the dose or number of units planned.
- Whether there is a charge for the consultation.
- Whether a follow-up visit at around two weeks is included.
- The touch-up or adjustment policy, if the result needs fine-tuning.
Ask us for these details when you book. We would rather you compare like with like than choose on a headline number.
Insurance, HSA and FSA
Dental insurance
Botox for cosmetic reasons is not covered by dental insurance.
Botox for jaw pain, grinding and clenching
Using botulinum toxin for grinding, clenching or jaw pain is off-label, and coverage varies widely. Some plans do not cover it at all. Depending on the plan, it may fall under medical insurance rather than dental insurance. We are happy to help you check your coverage before treatment. Do not assume it is covered until your plan has confirmed it.
HSA and FSA accounts
Health savings accounts and flexible spending accounts are for medical care. IRS Publication 502 says that, generally, you cannot include the cost of cosmetic surgery, meaning procedures directed at improving appearance that do not meaningfully promote the proper function of the body or treat illness or disease. Cosmetic Botox for facial lines generally falls into that category. Treatment for a medical condition may be eligible. Check with your plan administrator or a tax professional before you use account funds.
Ask for a written quote
Before any treatment, ask for the price in writing: the product, the areas, the planned dose and what is included. It protects you from surprises, and it makes comparing providers straightforward. To book a consultation, call (703) 250-5072 or request an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Botox cost at Shield Dental Care?+
It depends on the areas treated, the product and the dose you need, so we give you a price at the consultation, before any treatment. Ask us for it in writing.
Can I compare Botox and Dysport by price per unit?+
No. The units are not the same. Each brand measures its units with its own test, and they cannot be compared or converted. Compare the total cost of treating an area instead.
Does insurance cover Botox?+
Not for cosmetic reasons. For jaw pain, grinding or clenching, coverage varies and many plans do not cover it. We can help you check your plan before treatment.
Can I use my HSA or FSA for Botox?+
Generally not for cosmetic treatment. IRS rules exclude procedures aimed at improving appearance. Treatment for a medical condition may be eligible, so check with your plan administrator first.