What is Gummy Smile?
10.02.2026

If the question “what is a gummy smile?” is to be answered briefly, it can be described as a gingival smile. This condition, known as a gummy smile, refers to the gums being visible more than normal when a person speaks or smiles.

Although the teeth are actually of normal size, they are perceived as much larger than they really are during a gummy smile. While this may be considered normal by many people, individuals with this type of gum structure tend to feel its effects more psychologically. This condition, which is considered an issue in smile aesthetics, can affect individuals socially. Although it is not very common in everyone, there are treatment methods developed for this condition.

What Are the Causes of a Gummy Smile?

After finding the answer to the question “what is a gummy smile,” the causes of its occurrence in individuals can be listed as follows;

  • A thin upper lip
  • Hypermobile upper lip muscle (the most common cause)
  • Short tooth height
  • Excessive vertical growth of the upper jaw
  • Bone overgrowth on the outer side of the upper jaw
  • Excessive gum enlargement related to hypertension medications
  • Inflammation resulting from gum disorders

For gummy smile caused by these reasons, botox and crown lengthening procedures are commonly applied.

What Is Crown Lengthening Surgery?

Gingivectomy, which is the lengthening of the tooth crown, and apically repositioned flap procedures with or without bone resection are preferred operations for crown lengthening. The main purpose of this method is to remove excess gum tissue and thereby regulate the amount of gum visible on the front teeth. In addition, irregularities between crown lengths are corrected. By increasing the length of the front teeth, symmetry of the gums is achieved. These treatments are performed painlessly, and as a result, positive outcomes are obtained in the treatment of a gummy smile.

What Is Gummy Smile Treatment with Botox?

Botox, which is known to be a toxin, is frequently used today in aesthetic applications as well as in oral and dental treatments. Botox, which is a purified and simplified form of a toxin, is another method used in the treatment of a gummy smile.

When the muscles responsible for smiling shorten excessively, the botox method is used. This treatment is performed only with the help of injections and does not require any additional procedures. Depending on the severity of the gummy smile, botox is applied by dentists to two to five different points using an injector. The application points are the areas where the lip and nasal wings meet, the intersection of the nose and upper lip, and the sides of the nasal root.

When it is questioned whether botox treatment is painful, it should be noted that the injection area is numbed with local anesthetic creams.

What Should Be Considered After Botox?

  • Since needles penetrate the skin, makeup should not be applied on the same day.
  • Excessive alcohol consumption should be avoided as blood vessels dilate during this treatment.
  • Contact with extremely hot water should be avoided and steamy environments should be avoided. Showering with warm water does not pose a problem.
  • It should be remembered that jaw and lip movements can continue normally.

Who Should Not Receive Botox Treatment?

  • Pregnant and breastfeeding individuals
  • Individuals with an infection in the area where the application will be performed, especially in the lip region
  • Patients undergoing cancer treatment
  • Individuals with bleeding disorders
  • Individuals with muscle diseases
  • Individuals with advanced psychiatric disorders
  • Those who are required to use blood-thinning medications

Many details related to “what is a gummy smile” have been explained and discussed. However, individuals who wish to undergo botox treatment for this condition should not forget that these procedures must only be performed by qualified physicians. If the practitioners offering treatment are not plastic surgeons, dermatologists, or dentists, patients should absolutely not accept the procedure. When people seek help from non-medical individuals, they may later be unable to find solutions for problems that arise or may arise.

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Tülay AKKOL

Chief Dentist

Tülay AKKOL

Chief Dentist and Tülay Akkol Dental founder Tülay Akkol shares valuable insights on dental health and care, offering practical tips for everyday life. Her articles also highlight the latest innovations and developments in dentistry, helping readers stay informed about the industry's advancements.

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