What is a gummy smile?
A gummy smile is when a wide band of gum becomes visible above the upper front teeth when smiling. This is purely aesthetic and in most cases not a medical problem — but many people find it bothersome and wish for a more harmonious smile.
Where does a gummy smile come from?
There is no single cause. Often several factors play together:
- Very active upper-lip muscle — the upper lip pulls up strongly when smiling and exposes a lot of gum.
- Gum line — if the gum covers a lot of tooth, the teeth look shorter and the proportion of gum appears larger.
- Jaw and bone shape — the growth of the upper jaw can also play a role.
That is exactly why every sensible treatment starts with an honest analysis: a muscle-related gummy smile is approached differently from one caused by the gum line.
Botox for a muscle-related gummy smile
If the cause is mainly an overactive upper-lip muscle, a small amount of botulinum toxin (Botox) can help: the muscle is relaxed slightly in a targeted way, so the upper lip is pulled up less when smiling — and accordingly less gum is visible. The smile remains natural.
- Short treatment, usually only a few minutes
- The effect does not set in immediately, but over a few days
- The effect is temporary — a top-up after a few months is common
- No downtime, normal everyday life right afterwards
Cost
When Botox is not the right solution
If the gummy smile arises mainly from the gum line (too much or uneven gum), Botox achieves little. Here a gum correction with the laser (gingivectomy, from CHF 160) can harmonise the shape. For bone- or jaw-related forms, other procedures are needed. Which path fits can only be said after an examination.
Our approach in Zurich
We first look closely at where the gummy smile comes from and discuss honestly whether and which option makes sense for you. You can find more about our aesthetic Botox treatments on the treatment page — or arrange a consultation at our practice at Löwenplatz in Zurich.
This article is for general information only and does not replace individual dental advice. Whether and which treatment is right for you is something we determine in a personal consultation based on your individual situation.
