A „gummy smile” is a medical condition where a patient shows more than 2-3 mm of their upper gum when smiling. Causes of a gummy smile include genetic predisposition, excessive growth of the upper jaw bone, a too short or overactive upper lip, delayed tooth eruption, or bruxism. A remedy for a gummy smile is Botox treatment, which involves injecting botulinum toxin type A into the orbicularis oris muscles, leading to their enlargement and reducing gum visibility.
Gummy smile correction with botulinum toxin – procedure overview
Treatments with botulinum toxin are preceded by a medical interview. Once the patient is qualified for the gummy smile treatment, the procedure begins. The doctor selects the optimal dose of the preparation and injects it precisely. The doctor injects the toxin using a fine needle, which results in blocking the neuromuscular junctions, relaxing the muscles. Botulinum toxin is applied, for example, into the orbicularis oris muscle (above the upper lip). This is a quick and safe procedure that is an excellent alternative to invasive surgical or dental procedures. After the botulinum treatment, it can be observed that the lip and mouth stop lifting during a smile. The treatment with toxin causes the upper lip volume to lift.
Gummy smile correction with botulinum toxin – indications
- Gummy smile
Gummy smile botulinum toxin treatment – contraindications
- Pregnancy and lactation
- active autoimmune diseases
- Neuromuscular conduction disorders
Effects of Botulinum Toxin Treatment
It is worth noting that the first effects of the Botox treatment for a gummy smile appear within 3 to 10 days of the procedure. The effects of Botox last for 6 to 8 months, after which time the treatment should be repeated. The effect of the treatment is the reduction of a gummy smile.
