FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS A GUMMY SMILE?
When some people smile, their upper lip elevates too far above their upper teeth, exposing gums and producing an unattractive "Gummy Smile." This phenomenon could be due to several factors. One of the reasons is a hyperactive muscle that elevates the upper lip. Occasionally, the gummy smile is also aggravated by a thin upper lip that further contributes to the problem by exposing the upper gum even more.
ARE GUMMY SMILES BAD?
A smile in which the upper gums are too prominent is a common condition and does not represent a health issue. But while for most people smiling is an expression of happiness, individuals whose gums stand out more than their smile does often feel self-conscious. Very often, those with gummy smiles try to control and minimize their smile, and some feel so self-conscious that they prefer not to smile at all. This may have a detrimental effect on one's professional, social, and personal relationships.
DO I NEED SURGERY TO FIX MY GUMMY SMILE?
No, there’s no more need to undergo an operation to remove excess gum tissue. Anti-wrinkle injections, such as Botox® and Dysport, can now be used to give the same effect as gum lift surgery.
HOW DO YOU FIX A GUMMY SMILE WITH INJECTIONS?
Thankfully, gummy smile reduction is now possible, simple, and effective. Utilizing a non-surgical approach by injecting small amounts of Botox® into the hyperactive muscle of the upper lip, Dr. Khan will give you a smile that is natural and carefree. This simple procedure will weaken the hyperactive muscles and reduce the elevation of your upper lip, thereby reducing your inhibiting gummy smile. If a thin upper lip is a contributing factor, Dr. Khan may suggest concomitant upper lip augmentation with FDA approved fillers such as Restylane or Juvederm.*