How to fix a gummy smile

Gummy Smile Treatment, Waltham Abbey, Essex

A smile is one of the most defining features of a person’s face, but for some, the appearance of excess gum tissue can affect their confidence. This condition, often referred to as a “gummy smile,” can make people self-conscious about their smile. Fortunately, there are several ways to address this concern, one of which is through Botox, a minimally invasive treatment. In this blog, we'll explore what causes a gummy smile, how Botox can help correct it, and whether it’s a safe and effective solution.

What Is a Gummy Smile?

A gummy smile, medically known as excessive gingival display, occurs when a person’s smile reveals an excessive amount of gum tissue above their upper teeth. While there is no specific measurement for what constitutes a gummy smile, it’s generally considered noticeable when more than two millimetres of gum is visible. For many people, this can make their teeth appear smaller or less proportionate, which can often affect one’s confidence.

What Causes a Gummy Smile?

There are several factors that can cause a gummy smile. The most common include:

· Genetics: For many people, a gummy smile is inherited. Some individuals are born with shorter upper lips or larger gum tissues, making their gums more prominent when they smile.

· Overactive upper lip muscles: In some cases, the muscles that control the movement of the upper lip are hyperactive, causing the lip to rise higher than normal when smiling. This exposes more of the gumline.

· Teeth and jaw alignment: Some people have teeth that appear too short due to how they erupted or because of excessive gum tissue growth. In other cases, the upper jaw may protrude more than normal (a condition called maxillary excess), leading to more gum exposure.

· Orthodontic or dental issues: Conditions such as an improper bite or malocclusion can also contribute to a gummy smile by affecting how the upper lip moves.

How Botox Can Fix a Gummy Smile

Botox, or botulinum toxin, is commonly known for its ability to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, but it can also be used to treat a gummy smile. When injected into specific muscles around the upper lip, Botox temporarily relaxes these muscles, limiting their movement. This causes the upper lip to lower slightly when smiling, which in turn covers more of the gums and creates a more balanced smile.

The procedure is relatively simple and non-invasive. A small amount of Botox is injected into the levator labii superioris muscle, which is responsible for elevating the upper lip. The injection takes only a few minutes and typically requires no downtime. Patients can return to their daily activities immediately after the treatment.

How Long Do Results Last?

The results of using Botox to correct a gummy smile are temporary but long-lasting. Typically, patients will begin to see changes within three to five days, with full results appearing after two weeks. The effects last between three to six months, depending on how quickly an individual metabolises the Botox.

For those who are satisfied with their results, maintenance treatments can be scheduled every few months to sustain the desired appearance. Over time, with repeated treatments, some patients notice that they need fewer injections as the muscles gradually adapt to the reduced movement.

Is Botox a Safe Treatment for Gummy Smiles?

Botox is considered a safe and effective treatment for a gummy smile when administered by a qualified professional. Since Botox has been widely used in cosmetic treatments for decades, its safety profile is well-established. However, like any medical procedure, Botox injections come with potential risks and side effects. These can include minor bruising or swelling at the injection site, temporary muscle weakness, or an uneven smile if the Botox spreads to unintended muscles. These side effects are generally mild and resolve on their own within a few days or weeks.

Choosing an experienced provider is essential to minimise these risks and ensure precise placement of the injections. A skilled practitioner will tailor the treatment to your unique facial anatomy, ensuring a natural result that enhances your smile without making it look “frozen” or overly restricted.

If you’d like to learn more about gummy smile treatments, click here to enquire or to book a consultation with a PS Aesthetics, Waltham Abbey expert.