We are talking about a gummy smile when at least 3–4 millimetres of gum is visible above the upper teeth when smiling. Often, in a wide smile, the pink part of the gum even dominates the teeth.

There are different types of gummy smiles.

●       Dental (or related to the teeth). In this case, the teeth appear smaller and/or shorter than normal, while the gums are highly visible. The cause may be worn-out teeth, very short teeth, or teeth with delayed eruption.

●       Related to the structure of the jaw. If the upper jaw is elongated and protrudes too low, the gums are more visible than usual.

●       Related to muscles. It occurs when the muscles are hyperactive and lift the upper lip.

●       Periodontal – when there is excess volume of gum tissue (such as swelling). Then the gums cover most of the teeth.

●       A combination of two or more of the above types.

Some gummy smiles can be solved surgically. However, it often happens that surgical treatment is not sufficient. Dr Manol Ivchev explains why:

“In these patients we have a bone problem with the maxilla (or upper jaw) protruding downwards. When the patient smiles, a large part of the gum is visible.

Then we have two options. One is orthodontic intrusion of the maxilla. The other is surgery.

Personally, I prefer the orthodontic approach, and as a specialist in gummy smiles I believe that within a year or a year and a half a fairly serious gummy smile can be solved only with braces. Here, it is very important to assess the bite in advance. If the bite and the joint are not in good condition, they should be treated first. Only then, with the help of braces and an adequate protocol, the maxilla is moved upwards – in this way, the teeth together with the bone are lifted upwards.”

As dentists, we always keep in mind that a gummy smile is a serious problem for the patient – mostly aesthetic, but sometimes functional. With precise and well-planned orthodontics, it can have a lasting solution. For this purpose, at COLDY DENT we use not only braces, but also mini screws, following a specific protocol.

The advantages of orthodontic treatment over surgical treatment are that it is safer, less invasive and gives more lasting results.

Does botox treat gummy smiles?

You may hear that botox is sometimes offered as a quick and easy solution to a gummy smile – and to other functional dental disorders such as those in the temporomandibular joint.

Why is this a bad solution?

Botulinum toxin (botox) can indeed be a temporary solution in some cases of gummy smile, but it is only a temporary one. When the cause is muscle hyperactivity, this cosmetic solution can temporarily mask the problem by causing the muscles to relax. However, muscle hyperactivity is a problem that has a cause and must be addressed in order to find a permanent solution.

On the other hand, if the gummy smile is due to problems with the jaw, gums or other, then botulinum toxin will not only fail to give the expected cosmetic effect, but may also mask a more serious health problem. As we know, postponing any dental treatment only complicates the treatment itself at a later stage. Therefore, our doctors DO NOT recommend botulinum toxin as a method to overcome a gummy smile.

If you need a solution to this type of problem, do not hesitate to contact us.