Gummy Smile, also known as gingival smile, refers to the condition where the gums appear more than usual when smiling. According to research, 7% of men and 14% of women report that their gums are more visible than necessary. This condition, which can affect self-confidence, has several treatment options. Especially with the advancements in aesthetic dentistry, saying goodbye to a gummy smile has become much easier.
What are the causes of gummy smile?
The causes of gummy smile, which is becoming increasingly common in the population, are listed below:
- Inflammations caused by gum problems
- Teeth being shorter than normal
- A thin upper lip structure
- Overdevelopment of the upper jawbone
- Side effects of certain medications leading to gum overgrowth
- Hypermobile upper lip muscles
Botox treatment for gummy smile
You’ve probably heard of Botox. As a toxin, Botox is widely used in the field of aesthetics. Similarly, this treatment is effective for gummy smile cases.
Botox is applied in cases where the muscles responsible for smiling are abnormally shortened. The procedure is performed only with injectors—no additional method is needed. The Botox substance is injected at 2 to 5 different points depending on the severity of the gummy smile. The application point is where the nose and upper lip meet.
The patient does not feel any pain during the gummy smile Botox procedure. Local anaesthetic creams applied beforehand numb the area.
What are the side effects of gummy smile Botox?
Gummy smile Botox does not have any permanent side effects. However, if you have sensitive skin, you may experience redness and slight swelling in the treatment area. You can use a cold compress to reduce these temporary side effects.
If an excessive dose is used during the Botox procedure, difficulty in lip movement may occur. Therefore, the treatment must be carried out by a specialist.
High-risk groups for Botox application
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women
- People with infections in the application area
- Patients undergoing cancer treatment
- Individuals with bleeding disorders
- People with muscular diseases
- Patients with advanced psychiatric disorders
- Individuals using blood thinners
What should be considered after the procedure?
- Avoid wearing makeup on the day of the procedure.
- Stay away from excessive alcohol consumption.
- Avoid contact of the application area with very hot water. Warm showers are safe.
- You can continue to move your lips and jaw normally.
Does Botox cause pain?
Before gummy smile Botox is performed, the area is numbed with local anaesthetic creams, minimising any pain felt during the procedure. Additionally, cold is applied to the area during the operation. Very fine needles are used in this treatment, making the pain level very low.
When does the effect wear off?
Gummy smile Botox lasts for about 4 months. Its effect gradually diminishes after that and should be repeated after 6 months.
Is there any harm in repeating the procedure?
There is no health risk in repeating the treatment. In fact, experts state that consistently repeated aesthetic procedures enhance long-term results.
What is crown lengthening surgery?
Crown lengthening surgery, also known as gingivectomy, removes excess gum tissue to balance the amount of gum visible on the front teeth. It also corrects asymmetries in crown length. The procedure increases the length of the front teeth and adjusts the symmetry of the gums. The patient does not feel any pain during the process, and this method provides effective results for treating gummy smile.
How is crown lengthening surgery performed?
Another method used in the treatment of gummy smile is crown lengthening surgery. Also known as gingivectomy, this procedure requires surgery. The excessive gum is first identified, then surgically removed to eliminate imbalance between tooth lengths. After gum removal, the teeth appear longer. Post-surgery, the gums look more natural and healthier.
Why is crown lengthening surgery performed?
There are several reasons to have this treatment done:
- To achieve a healthy and natural smile
- To eliminate asymmetry in the gums
- To correct structural abnormalities at the edges of the gums
- To conceal gum discolouration, curvature, or cratering
- To strengthen the gums
- To prevent oedematous or fibrous tissue formation
- To restore short-looking teeth to a normal and healthy length
Does the procedure cause pain?
Since local anaesthesia is applied during crown lengthening, pain is minimal. The numbness from anaesthesia usually fades within a few hours.
Is the surgery permanent?
Crown lengthening surgery is permanent since gum tissue is removed. Its effects do not wear off. However, in rare cases, the gums may regrow and cause the gummy smile to return. That’s why regular aftercare is important.
Who is suitable for crown lengthening surgery?
Anyone over the age of 18 can undergo this procedure. If you are under 18, parental consent is required.
Who performs crown lengthening surgery?
Unlike gummy smile Botox, crown lengthening surgery falls under the scope of dentistry. This operation must be performed by a qualified dentist, orthodontist, or oral surgeon.
There are many questions surrounding gummy smile. However, those considering Botox should remember that this treatment must only be carried out by specialist doctors. It should not be performed by anyone who is not a plastic surgeon, dermatologist, or dentist. For any inquiries about gummy smile Botox or crown lengthening, you can contact Dentakay.
Also see: What is the purpose of wisdom teeth? What are the complications?
