Gummy Smile Correction: Surgical Treatment vs. Botox and Fillers

by | Feb 6, 2024 | Cosmetic Dentistry, Sedation Dentistry

Has your confidence been affected by an overly gummy smile? You’re not the only one. The good news is, that if you are bothered by the appearance of a gummy smile, there are a variety of treatments available.

Often people look to Botox and fillers as they temporarily adjust the appearance of the lips, muscles, and surrounding tissues. This route of treatment can be quite effective when done properly, however, the results are not long-lasting and require maintenance. Some individuals may also not be a candidate for Botox and fillers due to allergies or having a more severe gummy smile case.

Dr. Meden at Elite Smiles offers a permanent solution for gummy smiles, unlike Botox and fillers. Gummy smile treatment, or lip repositioning surgery, is a procedure that permanently fixes the appearance of a gummy smile and offers precision results. This same-day surgery is typically done under anesthesia, with or without sedation, and has a quick recovery time with little-to-no downtime. Here are some advantages of surgical gummy smile treatment compared to Botox and fillers:

Permanent Results

Surgical procedures often provide more permanent results compared to the temporary effects of Botox and fillers.

Precision in Correction

Surgical techniques allow for precise adjustment of the gum and tooth exposure, ensuring a tailored and accurate correction.

Customization for Individual Cases

Surgeons can customize surgical treatments based on the specific needs of each patient, addressing varying degrees of gummy smiles effectively.

Long-Term Stability

Surgical interventions often offer greater stability and long-term success, minimizing the need for frequent touch-ups that may be required with Botox and fillers.

Comprehensive Correction

Surgery allows for a comprehensive correction of both skeletal and soft tissue issues contributing to the gummy smile, providing a more holistic approach.

Addressing Underlying Causes

Surgical procedures can address and correct underlying issues such as excessive gum tissue, jaw positioning, or tooth eruption, tackling the root causes of the gummy smile.

Minimal Maintenance

Once the surgical correction is completed, there is typically less ongoing maintenance required compared to regular injections of Botox or fillers.

Natural-Looking Results

Surgical treatments can achieve natural-looking results that seamlessly integrate with the patient’s facial features, avoiding the risk of an overfilled or unnatural appearance.

Boost in Self-Confidence

The permanence and precision of surgical correction often lead to a significant and lasting boost in the patient’s self-confidence and satisfaction with their smile.

Reduced Treatment Frequency

Surgical gummy smile treatment may require fewer sessions and appointments compared to the ongoing maintenance needed with Botox and fillers, offering a more time-efficient solution.

Individual preferences, the severity of your gummy smile, and other factors will dictate your choice between between surgical and non-surgical options. During your consultation with a qualified dental or cosmetic surgeon, like Dr. Meden, they can help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and goals.

Learn more about gummy smile treatment.