Gummy smile is when one smiles, the lip rests high on the gums. Usually we expect to see only the pink-ish (gingiva) little “triangles” between the teeth or up to 2mm of gum to show in a smile. While every genuine and authentic smile can be endearing, we strive to help our patients have the smile they want. If someone shows more than 2 millimetres of upper gum tissue, we call it a “gummy” smile. People with a “gummy” smile may feel their teeth are smaller than normal, may be reluctant to smile, or even self-conscious about their smile. However, a “gummy” smile can be improved through Botox, surgical or dental treatment.
What Causes a Gummy Smile
There are more causes of gummy smile and they have different treatments.
- Long or enlarged gum tissue, known as gingival hypertrophy, can result in a gummy smile. (Gingival overgrown or having excessive gingival tissue can be hormonal or medication induced and sometimes we use surgical intervention as well.)
- Excessive growth of the upper jaw, known as vertical maxillary excess, can expose more gum tissue. (This is a genetic pre-disposition.) We can help with Botox. Sometimes the best solution is orthognathic surgery.
- A short or hyperactive upper lip can create an appearance of gums that is larger than usual. It can be usually treated with Botox. For bigger corrections we can do lip repositioning or lengthening of the lip.
- The size and shape of the teeth can result in a gummy smile. More gum tissue will be exposed if teeth appear to be small or hidden. Best option is a combination of gum reshaping or dental treatment. If you don’t wish it can be helped a little with Botox.
Description
A gummy smile can easily and effectively be treated with Botox. The best part of this treatment is that it is not invasive and it is a quick procedure. Botox has botulinum toxin type A, and when injected, it can relax the muscles in the upper lip and limit the rise of the upper lip when smiling, so the gums will remain covered. Two or more units of Botox are injected in the area between the nose and upper lip to reduce the appearance of a “gummy” smile, creating a more appealing and natural smile.
Postoperative instructions
The treatment is incredibly effective, and the results usually last 3-4 months; we have found that when we repeat this procedure, over time, generally we get more time between the treatments. One may return to work immediately after treatment, and results are often with the full effect occurring in two weeks.