A gummy smile is when excessive gum tissue shows when a person smiles. One popular, non-invasive solution is using Botox to relax the upper lip muscles, allowing the lip to cover more of the gums.
How Botox helps treat a gummy smile
Botox is injected into the muscles around the upper lip (usually the levator labii superioris alaeque nasi muscle) with excessive gum exposure. This reduces the hyperactivity of the muscles that pull the upper lip up too high when smiling. After a few days, the Botox will take effect, reducing the elevation of the upper lip and covering more of the gums exposure, creating a more balanced smile. The treatment typically lasts around 3 to 4 months, after which the muscles regain their strength, and the gummy smile may reappear. Maintenance sessions are needed to keep the effect. It's minimally invasive, with little to no downtime. Most people resume normal activities right after the procedure. Its a quick, effective, and temporary solution for those who want to avoid surgery.
Why to treat Gingival Smile?
Self-Esteem Issues
Those with Gum-heavy smile may avoid smiling or feel socially anxious, potentially leading to reduced self-esteem over time.
Cosmetic Concerns
High gumline smile can make people feel self-conscious about their smiles, leading to reduced confidence and social discomfort.
Disproportionate Appearance
Gum-revealing smile smile might look unbalanced, with more focus on the gums rather than the teeth, affecting facial harmony.
Oral Health Issues
In some cases, overexposed gums can trap food particles more easily, potentially increasing the risk of plaque buildup, gingivitis, or other gum diseases.
Jaw or Bite Alignment
Prominent gumline are sometimes related to skeletal or dental alignment issues, such as malocclusion (improper bite), which can lead to problems like TMJ disorders (jaw pain or dysfunction).
Speech Concerns
In some severe cases, improper gum-tooth proportions might slightly affect the way someone speaks or pronounces certain words.
Tooth Perception
With High upper gum visibility, teeth may appear shorter or smaller, even if they are normally sized, affecting the overall symmetry of the face and smile.
Gum Irritation
Excessive gingival display can lead to irritation, as the gums might be more prone to dryness, inflammation, or damage from environmental factors or certain foods.
