How much is gummy smile correction?
By Dr Rachael Syvret
You can’t put a price on a nice smile! Well, at Underlining Beauty, we do. But what is considered a “nice” smile? There are lots of people who have looked at the ratios and measurements of the face and decided what makes the most aesthetically appealing appearance. When looking at the lips specifically, it is not just their size, shape, crisp outline and perfectly formed cupids bow that is taken into consideration; it is also the teeth and gums.
Our smile
When we smile, the elevator labii superioris alaeque nasi muscle contracts. This is the muscle that joins the inner corner of the eye, to the upper lip, and allows you to snarl. Sometimes this muscle is overactive. As a result, when that person smiles, the upper lip is lifted more than it should be, and thus reveals more of the teeth and upper gums that we would like it to.
What causes a gummy smile?
Often this is caused by genetics and there is nothing we can do to avoid it from happening. As the upper lip pulls up and out as we smile, even in a patient with muscle hyperactivity, it can make the top lip appear thinner. It is for the above reasons that people generally seek treatment to reduce this lifting effect.
How can you improve the appearance of a gummy smile?
Botox can be placed into the elevator labii superiors alaeque nasi muscle on both sides to help to relax the effects of this muscle. As a result, the upper lip does not move upwards as much as it would normally and thus the upper teeth and gums are more concealed from view, and the upper lip appears thicker.
What can I expect at my appointment?
It is important not to relax this muscle completely, however, as we do want the upper lip to move upwards to some degree when we smile. It is for this reason that when treating the gummy smile with botox, it is often done in two sittings. By offering the patient two separate sittings, the dose can be tailored to their requirements. Although treating the gummy smile only involves two injection points, because of these repeated treatments and appointments, this is reflected in the price. As with all treatments with botox, the results typically take up to two weeks to take effect. The second appointment is therefore booked at least two weeks after the first appointment so the effects of the first dosing can be fully assessed.
How long will my results last?
The results of the treatment usually last approximately four months, although like with all botox treatments, this can vary from client to client. The results will be at their maximum effect two weeks after the treatment and will slowly decrease over the following four month period.
Underlining Beauty Gummy smile correction price
£120
