How Does Gummy Smile Botox Work?
Gummy Smile Botox, West Malling, Kent
A smile that showcases an excessive amount of gum tissue, commonly referred to as a “gummy smile,” can be a source of self-consciousness for many. While traditionally managed through surgical means, the use of Botox has emerged as a minimally invasive alternative offering significant cosmetic improvement. Read on to delve into the causes behind a gummy smile, how Botox treatment works, its effects, and the duration of its outcomes.
What Causes a Gummy Smile?
A gummy smile can result from several factors, often involving the interplay of skeletal dynamics, gum tissue health, and lip mobility. The most common causes include:
Excessive Gum Tissue
Overgrowth of the gum tissue can cover more of the teeth than is typical, leading to a gummy appearance.
Upper Lip Hyperactivity
An overactive upper lip can rise too high when smiling, exposing more gum tissue than usual.
Dental Issues
The way your teeth grow or how they’re positioned can impact how much gum shows when you smile.
Upper Jawbone Development
An excessively long upper jaw can contribute to a gummy smile by causing an abnormal eruption of teeth, thereby showing more gum.
Treating a Gummy Smile with Botox
Botox, or Botulinum toxin, has been a revolutionary tool in the field of cosmetic dentistry for treating gummy smiles non-surgically. It works by targeting the muscles responsible for elevating the upper lip, reducing its upward mobility when smiling. This minimises the exposure of gum tissue and achieves a more balanced smile.
The Effects of Botox
Following the treatment, patients can expect to see improvements within a few days, with the full effect visible in about two weeks.
Benefits include:
- Reduced Gum Visibility: A significant reduction in gum exposure when smiling.
- Enhanced Smile Aesthetics: A more balanced and aesthetically pleasing smile.
- Minimal Downtime: Unlike surgical options, Botox treatment has minimal recovery time, allowing patients to resume normal activities almost immediately.
Longevity of Botox Effects
The effects of Botox for treating a gummy smile are temporary. On average, results last between 3 to 6 months, after which the muscles return to their normal activity, and the gummy smile reappears. Regular maintenance treatments are necessary to sustain the desired aesthetic outcome.
In conclusion…
Botox offers a promising, less invasive alternative for those looking to correct a gummy smile without undergoing surgery. Its ability to temporarily modify the dynamics of the upper lip provides a convenient solution for improving smile aesthetics. However, it’s crucial to consult with a qualified professional to determine whether this treatment is suitable for your specific case and to ensure the procedure is performed safely and effectively.
If you’d like to learn more about gummy smile Botox, or to establish whether it’s right for you, click here to enquire or to book a consultation.
Disclaimer: Please be aware that results and benefits may vary from patient to patient taking into consideration factors such as age, lifestyle and medical history.