gummy smile is when a person smiles, and a large proportion of gum tissue is visible above their front teeth. Perception of a gummy smile varies between individuals, some feel that their gums are too prominent whilst smiling, others that their teeth appear too small, or for some that their teeth fail to make an impact while smiling. Generally, a smile is perceived to "gummy" when four millimetres of gum tissue is visible while smiling.
Main contributory factors include: a too long upper jaw and/or a too short top lip (to cover the gums and teeth sufficiently) teeth failing to erupt correctly, or the gums are too long or hypertrophied (known as gingival hypertrophy).
A gummy smile can make a person self-conscious or embarrassed by their smile.
At Bedford Skin Clinic we administer Botox into hyperactive upper lip muscles to minimise the appearance of a gummy smile. Previously surgical intervention was the primary treatment option, a costly and painful procedure. In comparison Botox injections are relatively pain free and cost effective.