FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS A GUMMY SMILE?
A gummy smile happens when the upper lip lifts above the teeth too much, exposing the upper gums, resulting in what can be perceived as an unattractive ‘gummy’ smile. This may be caused by several issues, but the most common reason behind it is when the muscle that elevates the upper lip is hyperactive. In cases like this, Botox can safely help correct the upper gum overexposure, by reducing the muscles' strong pull on the upper lip. Occasionally, a gummy smile can be made worse if you have a thin upper lip, contributing to the problem by exposing the upper gum even more. But in order to correct this, a maxillary impaction may be necessary to reduce the overall height of the maxilla.
HOW DOES BOTOX CORRECT A GUMMY SMILE?
A gummy smile can easily and effectively be treated with a non-invasive and very quick Botox injection. When the botulinum toxin type A is injected in the upper gum, it can relax the muscles in the upper lip and limit the rise of the upper lip when smiling. With just a few units injected in the area between the nose and upper lip, Botox corrects the appearance of any “gummy” smile and creates a more appealing and natural smile.
WILL I STILL BE ABLE TO SMILE & FROWN?
Absolutely, yes! The treatment with BOTOX® will not radically change your facial appearance or make you look as if you’ve “had work done.” The muscle activity that causes frown lines between the brows is only partially reduced, so you’ll still be able to frown or look surprised, but without the wrinkles and creases between your brows.
ARE THERE ANY RISKS OR SIDE EFFECTS?
Although unlikely, all Botulinum Toxin treatments have the potential to cause a weakening effect of other small facial muscles close to the area treated. This can lead to temporary asymmetry, when the effect may take better on one side and not the other. But a touch-up treatment at the 2-3 week check-up appointment can correct this undesired outcome.
HOW LONG DO THE RESULTS LAST?
Botox in the upper gum area can last anything from 3 to 6 months, depending on each patient’s response to the botulinum toxin type A. Botox is also a progressive solution for Gummy Smile Correction. Meaning if you have the treatment a few times it often lasts longer as the size and strength of the treated overactive muscles starts to reduce. Along with the fact that you can get out of the habit of overusing these muscles so they stop being as hyperactive.
WHERE CAN I CORRECT MY GUMMY SMILE NEAR LARCHMONT?
At StudioMD Medical Aesthetics & Wellness Centers we have highly-trained practitioners specializing in all of the latest non-surgical cosmetic treatments. We currently offer Gummy Smile Correction with Botox in all of our 7 locations, including Larchmont, Eastchester. We can simply and safely help correct your gummy smile with Botox® by reducing the muscles' strong pull on the upper lip. And if you also desire to make a thin lip look fuller in the process, we’ll be happy to discuss with you our dermal filler treatment options. Come in for a complimentary consultation and let us help you discover your Best Smile!