ICS Dental Studio

Use it or lost it - don't let your dental benefits go to waste!

With the year coming to a close, this is the last opportunity to use your remaining dental benefits before they reset.

To book in, please call us on (02) 8528 7144.

Please note our clinic will be closed from December 23rd, reopening on January 5th 2026. Happy Holidays!

Patient discussing facial aesthetic treatments with dentist during oral exam

Structural vs. Functional: A Look at Non-Surgical Facial Aesthetics in Menai

November 13, 2025
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patient at Menai dentist after receiving facial aesthetic treatment

Facial aesthetic treatments in dental practices serve different purposes. Structural treatments are about appearance, whilst others relate to functional concerns regarding facial muscles or jaw pain. Dentists may use injectable treatments to address both. Understanding these categories may help you discuss your needs with your dentist. At ICS Dental Studio in Menai, near East Hills, we offer consultations to assess which approach might suit your individual circumstances.

Important points to consider:

  • Structural treatments are used for aesthetic concerns
  • Functional treatments are used for therapeutic concerns
  • Injectable treatments can serve structural or functional purposes
  • Your dentist will assess your particular needs 
  • All treatments carry risks and require a professional assessment

Structural Applications: An Aesthetic Focus

Structural facial aesthetics refer to treatments used for aesthetic purposes. These applications are related to cosmetic concerns. 

The structural category of applications includes treatments for facial lines, wrinkles and volume changes that occur naturally with age. For example, one type of treatment in this category may include facial injections to manage wrinkles. Generally speaking, patients seeking structural treatments generally have aesthetic goals rather than medical or functional problems they want to address.

The Aesthetic Consultation

During a consultation for structural aesthetics in Menai, your dentist will talk to you about your aesthetic concerns and goals. They will assess your facial features and explain what types of treatments exist for your needs. 

Your dentist will likely consider factors like your facial anatomy and skin condition. They will also talk to you about realistic expectations and explain that most facial injectable treatments are temporary and that you will need to repeat the procedures regularly to maintain results.

Functional Applications: A Therapeutic Focus

Functional facial treatments used in dental practices relate to therapeutic or medical concerns rather than aesthetic goals. These applications involve some of the same or similar treatment modalities as structural applications, but serve a different purpose. For example, your dentist may use facial injectable treatments to help manage conditions like TMJ-related muscle tension or teeth grinding (bruxism). 

The Functional Consultation

During a consultation for functional concerns, your dentist in Menai will assess your symptoms and medical history. They will examine your jaw movement and muscle function to determine if injectable treatments can help manage your condition.

Your Menai dentist will evaluate factors like muscle tension patterns and pain levels. They will explain how functional injectable treatments work differently from aesthetic applications. You should understand that functional treatments aim to improve comfort and function rather than appearance, though some aesthetic changes may occur as a secondary effect.

Considering a Consultation in Menai near East Hills? Let Us Help!

If you have facial concerns related to structure or function, understanding the differences may help you communicate better with your dentist. 

At ICS Dental Studio, we offer facial aesthetic treatments and therapeutic injectable treatments. We will assess your unique needs, goals, and overall health before discussing any treatment options. Ready to book a consultation? Call us on (02) 8528 7144. We are here to help.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
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