Are you self-conscious of a “gummy smile” — meaning that too much gum tissue is revealed when you smile? Many people are bothered by what they feel is an excessive amount of gum tissue when the upper lip curls upward. Experts have found that any more than two millimeters of gum tissue showing is noticeable to the average eye, and three to four millimeters is considered “gummy.”
While a dental professional is the more traditional authority on these concerns, some people approach plastic surgeons about their worries. Over the past few years, Botox and Dysport have been introduced as a possible (off-label) option for the correction of a gummy smile. Here, Dr. Moz of Belladerma Cosmetic Surgery & Skin Care Center shares his thoughts about using Botox or Dysport to fix a gummy smile.
Botox or Dysport Provides Slight, Temporary Improvement
Botox is a minimally invasive way to slightly improve the look of a gummy smile. Instead of directly altering the amount of gum tissue by surgery, the doctor or nurse injects Botox or Dysport into the muscles responsible for lifting the upper lip. The neurotoxin reduces the movement of the upper lip, preventing it from fully retracting and exposing the gum tissue.
The effects are temporary however, lasting about three to four months in most cases — so regular treatment is required for upkeep. And, the injections must be done very precisely. Even the slightest bit of overcorrection can rarely cause a smile to look unnatural or asymmetrical and require additional touch-up injections.
More Appropriate Treatments
A more permanent way to address a gummy smile is a simple surgical lowering of the upper lip position. Sometimes gum surgery is also required by a dental surgeon.
Plastic surgeons, dentists and oral surgeons can fix a gummy smile several different ways:
- Gingivectomy: surgical operation to remove excess gum tissue
- Laser gum recontouring: laser is used to reshape the gum tissue
- Crown lengthening: surgical operation to expose a greater amount of tooth structure
- Orthognathic surgery (only used in extreme cases): repositions a jaw that protrudes forward too much
Want More Information about Botox or Dysport?
For more information about Botox and Dysport and how it is commonly used, please contact Dr. Moz at Belladerma Cosmetic Surgery and Skin Care Center. You can call (858) 261-6900 or send us an email.
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