Gummy Smiles: A Guide to Reduction

Numerous uses exist for anti-wrinkle injections asides smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles. Some of these more advanced uses include the treatment of hyperhidrosis, jawline slimming to relieve bruxism (teeth grinding) and the Gummy Smile correction.

People who have gummy smiles typically reveal a larger portion of their gums than usual when they smile or laugh and whereas this has no medical implications, often leads to reduced confidence and self esteem as the individual feels the need to hold back from full self expression.

Before now, surgery (gingivectomy) was the only available option for gummy smile reduction, which is an operation to cut off excess gum tissue. Now, due to the incredible versatility of botox, gummy smiles can now be corrected with Botox Cosmetic injections via a simple procedure that can be performed within an hour and one which offers similar benefits as a gum lift surgery.

What is responsible for gummy smiles?

There are many factors which contribute to gummy smiles and some of them include:

• Gingival hypertrophy, describing gums that are enlarged or too long
• Vertical maxillary excess which is a genetically determined excessive growth of the maxilla (upper jaw)
• An over active or short upper lip
• Teeth size and shape as smaller or obscure teeth may reveal more gum tissue

How does gummy smile reduction with Botox work?

Botox for gummy smile reduction is a simple, quick non-invasive and effective solution that yields natural looking results. A small amount of Botox is strategically delivered via 2 to 3 points of injection which cause the hyperactive muscles atop the upper lip to relax, limiting the upper lip rise during a laugh or smile.

This can be done in as little as 15 minutes in order to achieve a relaxed upper lip that is able to  effectively conceal the gums. The results are more or less instantaneous (fully appreciated in about 2 weeks) and the patient can get back to work immediately after the treatment.

How long will the results last?

Usually, results can be seen within a few days of the procedure however, the maximal effects are observed after two weeks and are  expected to last a duration of 3 to 4 months. The duration however, naturally varies from individual to individual and so a touch up appointment is generally recommended every 4 to 6 months at least in order to maintain the effects.

Is Botox Gummy smile reduction painful?

Anti-wrinkle procedures are generally not considered painful however, some stinging might be felt at the point of injection. Local anaesthesia in the way of a topical numbing cream can be applied to greatly reduce any stinging sensations.

This treatment is minimally invasive and so is not usually associated with side effects especially when carried out by licensed, registered and trained aesthetic practitioners. However, a few side effects that may occur are mild and include: bruising, mild swelling, temporary bleeding and headache following treatment.

Benefits of Gummy Smile Reduction with Botox

There are many benefits to be enjoyed with correcting a gummy smile using Botox and some of them are:

• Botox injections are associated with very minimal discomfort and this typically reduces with subsequent treatments.
• Instant recovery following the procedure unlike the surgical alternative which has significantly more downtime.
• More affordable and cost-effective in comparison with surgical treatment options.
• The aesthetic outcomes are more natural and also adjustable.

As the demand for non-invasive cosmetic injectable treatments continue to rise in preference to surgical options, health professionals who desire to learn these treatments are highly welcome to Derma Institute’s award-winning and CPD-certified Botox and Dermal Filler training courses which will teach you all you need to know in order to safely, confidently and expertly offer these treatments to your clients.

Contact us now to book the next available space!