The “B” Word: And Why We Can’t Advertise It (but still offer it)

You’ve probably noticed it. Your Instagram feed is quieter. Your favourite clinic isn’t posting before-and-after shots of those familiar wrinkle-smoothing results. So what’s going on?

Why We Can't Say "The B Word" (a.k.a cosmetic injectables)

There have been recent changes to the laws governing the advertising of cosmetic treatments in Australia. In particular, there are now stricter rules around Schedule 4 medications, which include things like botulinum toxin (you know, the one that starts with B and ends in -tox).

Under these laws, clinics and practitioners are no longer allowed to advertise:

• The brand names of prescription-only medications

• Terms like "injectables", "anti-wrinkle injections", or even showing before-and-after results that imply a Schedule 4 treatment

• Promotions or giveaways involving these treatments

These updates are from Queensland Health and apply to all healthcare providers offering cosmetic services that use S4 medicines. You can read more on the Queensland Health website here.

So... What Can We Say?

At Toowoomba Dental, we now refer to these treatments as neuromuscular relaxing treatments. It’s a bit of a mouthful, but it’s the accurate and legally compliant way to describe what these therapies do.

These treatments help reduce muscle tension, relieve jaw pain caused by grinding or clenching, and can even assist with certain headaches and facial discomfort, all common issues we encounter in our dental practice. We can also treat any cosmetic concerns you may have, like frown lines and the like.

Why Dentists Are Uniquely Qualified

Here’s something many people don’t realise: as dentists, we are not only trained in facial anatomy, but we are also qualified prescribers. This means:

• We can consult with you

• Prescribe your treatment

• And deliver it — all in one appointment

You don’t need to visit a GP first. You don’t need to fill a script at a pharmacy. You certainly don’t need to bounce between multiple locations to complete a single procedure. We handle the whole process right here in the clinic.

What This Means For You

We understand that all the new rules can be confusing. But at its heart is one goal: patient safety.

By seeing a qualified healthcare provider who is authorised to prescribe and administer these treatments on-site, you’re protected under a higher standard of care. Our clinic operates under strict infection control, accurate record keeping, and ethical practice policies.

Curious? Let’s Chat

We cannot advertise the name of the treatment, but we can discuss it with you in person. If you’re wondering whether neuromuscular relaxing therapy could help with grinding, clenching, jaw pain or even aesthetic concerns, we’d love to walk you through your options.

📞 Call us on (07) 4646 4236

🌸 Visit us at toowoombadental.com.au

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Note: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalised recommendations.