Gummy Smile

Laughter is very important. It stimulates the production of endorphins and dopamine in the brain and reduces stress. In addition, it also stimulates the immune system. So you can laugh as much as possible. That is why it is also nice to have a nice smile that you are happy with yourself.

Some people suffer from a strong upward pulling lip that makes the gums visible. This is often also called the Gummy Smile, because the gum (“gum” in English) is visible during laughter. There can be changed by a simple injectable treatment.

With Botulinum toxin, muscles can be weakened that pull the lip too far up so that less gum becomes visible and the original thickness of the upper lip is retained during laughter. This way you get a nice smile again where the gums are not visible

A “gummy smile” refers to a smile in which a significant portion of the upper gums is visible above the teeth when a person smiles. This condition is subjective and can vary from person to person. Some people may be comfortable with their gummy smile, while others may feel self-conscious about it.

There are several potential causes of a gummy smile, including:

1. Excessive Gum Tissue: Some people have an overgrowth of gum tissue that covers a larger portion of their teeth.
2. Short Upper Lip: A short upper lip can contribute to a gummy smile by not adequately covering the gums when smiling.
3. Hyperactive Upper Lip Muscles: Overactivity of the muscles that control the movement of the upper lip can result in a gummy smile.
4. Vertical Maxillary Excess: This occurs when there is an excessive amount of bone in the upper jaw, causing the gums to appear more prominent.
5. Teeth Eruption Issues: If the teeth do not erupt properly, it can lead to a gummy smile.

The treatment for a gummy smile depends on the underlying cause and the individual’s preferences. Some common treatment options include:

1. Orthodontics: Braces or clear aligners may be used to correct the alignment of the teeth.
2. Gingival Contouring: This involves reshaping the gum tissue to create a more balanced and proportionate appearance.
3. Lip Lowering Procedures: In some cases, a surgical procedure can be performed to reduce the visibility of the gums when smiling.
4. Botox Injections: Botulinum toxin injections can be used to relax the muscles that elevate the upper lip, reducing the amount of gum that is exposed when smiling.

It’s important to consult with a dentist or a specialist in orthodontics or periodontics to determine the cause of the gummy smile and to explore appropriate treatment options. The choice of treatment will depend on the severity of the gummy smile, the underlying factors, and the individual’s preferences.