We all deserve to smile as often as possible, but our happiness can be hindered if we aren’t entirely happy with the way we look when we do so. For some, they may feel that smiling reveals far too much of their gum tissue, or their gums are too prominent in comparison to their teeth. This is simply known as a “gummy smile”, and most often occurs when the muscles in the upper lip is hyperactive, causing it to elevate too far above the teeth and expose too much of the underlying gum tissue. Patients who have a gummy smile may feel it detracts from the attractiveness of their appearance, making the teeth look smaller or shorter in comparison.
Causes of Gummy Smile
There are a number of causes of a gummy smile. Some common causes include:
1) Excessive muscle movement – When too much muscle is used to smile, it can cause the corners of the mouth to lift up too high, resulting in a gummy smile.
2) Tooth alignment – If the teeth are not aligned correctly, it can cause the smile to look gummy.
3) Genetics – Some people are simply born with a gummy smile.
No matter what the cause of your gummy smile is, there are a number of treatments available to correct it. If you are self-conscious about your smile and would like to discuss treatment options, please
Can a gummy smile be corrected?
The answer is YES. Depending on the cause of the gummy smile, there are a number of treatments that can be performed to correct it. Some common treatments include:
1) Surgery – If the cause of the gummy smile is due to excessive muscle movement, surgery may be necessary to remove some of the excess muscle.
2) Dental work – If the cause of the gummy smile is due to incorrect tooth alignment, dental work can be performed to correct it.
3) Botox injections – Botox is a muscle relaxant that can be used to help lift the corners of the mouth and create a more natural-looking smile.
No matter what the cause of your gummy smile is, there are a number of treatments available to correct it. If you are self-conscious about your smile and would like to discuss treatment options, please contact our office for a consultation. We would be happy to help you achieve the smile you have always wanted.
Patients Before and After Images
What does the treatment do?
For gummy smile treatment, Dr Hiba Injibar is on hand to help here at Dermasurge Clinic in Harley Street, London. The most effective treatment involves the use of a muscle-relaxing injection. These can be used to block nerve signals to the overactive muscle, preventing it from fully contracting and reducing the amount of gum shown for a truly stunning smile.
A thorough consultation is performed first by our resident consultant dermatologist to examine the patient and suggest possible treatments.
Many patients may feel reluctant about undergoing injectable treatment, but with Dr Injibar’s talents, there really is no need to fear. Using the advanced technique, Dr Injibar avoids the dreaded “frozen” effects that incorrect or heavy-handed administration of injectables can cause for a subtle improvement to the beauty of the face, whilst preserving full freedom of expression in the face.
Fixing a Gummy Smile with Muscle Relaxing Injections
Muscle relaxing injections are a non-surgical alternative to extensive surgical treatments for severe gummy smiles. Botox is a neurotoxin that depresses various nerve functions. It is given as local anaesthetic injections just above the smile, at the Yonsei Point, which is where three muscles meet.
The injections work by paralyzing the muscles that pull up the corners of the mouth, and as a result, stop the excessive display of gum tissue. The procedure takes only 10 minutes to perform and has few risks. There is usually some bruising and swelling after the injections, but these will subside within a week or two. Results are usually seen within 3-4 days and last for around 3-6 months.
If you are considering Botulinum toxin injections to correct your gummy smile, please contact our office for a consultation. We would be happy to answer any questions you may have.
How much does it cost to fix a gummy smile?
The cost of muscle relaxing injections, for a gummy smile, will vary but it is typically a relatively affordable procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Patients will notice an improvement to their smile within 3 days of treatment and will find their upper lip elevates less and less over a period of around two to three weeks. After this time, the full extent of the effects of the treatment will be evident.
Injectables are considered a minimally invasive treatment, and as such, there is very little downtime. Most patients are able to return to their everyday routines immediately after treatment. However, care should be taken to follow Dr Injibar’s aftercare advice in order to ensure the best results. This includes avoiding extreme temperatures, vigorous exercise for two days, and lying down, or leaning over for around 6 hours after treatment.
During your consultation, Dr Injibar will check your medical history to ensure there are no contraindications for any injectable treatments. These treatments are not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding mothers, or patients currently taking certain types of medication. That is why it is important to conduct a full consultation before any injectable treatment is done.
Patients may experience bruising, swelling, itching, redness, or tenderness around the site of injection. This is perfectly normal, and should not last more than a few days. More severe or persistent symptoms should be seen to by a medical professional.
Most patients find results for gummy smile last between 3 and 4 months. However, this depends on how each individual’s body processes the injectables. Also, it may vary from person to person.
Patient Reviews
“I am so glad I came to Dr. Hiba, I didn’t know what I wanted, however, my skin felt tired, old, and grey. She immediately put my mind at ease. She helped me with a skincare regime that worked! My treatment quick, painless – and results fantastic. Very happy, can’t recommend her enough.”
“As my skin is aging, Dr. Hiba is helping me improve and maintain the texture of my skin in ways that are very natural looking and age appropriate. Dr. Hiba is so professional and took the time to explain the process and ensured she wouldn’t freeze my face. Dr. Hiba is very easy to communicate with (as is her staff) and I am genuinely looking forward to having my procedures done.”
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Get in touch if you have any skin related questions that you would like to discuss in confidence.