A Standardized Technique for Gummy Smile Treatment Using Repeated Botulinum Toxins: A 1-year Follow-up Study

Abstract

The present study was performed to evaluate the effect of repeated botulinum toxin injections and their long-term effects, using a customized injection point and dosage technique in the treatment of excessive gingival display. Twenty women who had gummy smile due to hypermobility of the upper lip or gingival display, ranging from 4 to 6 mm‚ were included in the study. All patients were injected with Botox injections at different injection points according to the type of smile. Pre- and postoperative measurements were taken by measuring digitally the gingival display at smiling, using Adobe Photoshop software via standardized digital photographs. Patients were followed up at 14 days, 4 months, 8 months, and 12 months. Postoperative measurements showed marked improvement at 14-day follow-up, with a significant reduction in the amount of gingival display. Relapse, however, occurred at 4 months and later. For excessive gingival display, Botox is an effective treatment that lasts for 2-3 months, with almost complete relapse at 4 months. We concluded from the results of our study that, despite repeated Botox injections at two follow-up intervals (4 and 8 months), the theory that repeated Botox injections may offer a permanent effect is still questionable.