Biomodelation of Gummy Smile with Botulinum Toxin: An overview

Gingival smile is a constant complaint and its treatment modalitiesvary from simple methods like use of botulinum toxin, to even complex ones as orthognathic surgery.In this era of passion to look beautiful, various new technologies are emerging to enhance and improve the physical appearance. Use of this toxin is emerging as a popular, cost effective and least invasive treatment option to improve facial anomalies. Botulinum toxin is a protein produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, and is considered one of the most powerful neurotoxins ever discovered and is now marketed under the trade name of Botox. The use of Botox is now common and is provided by many dental practitioners as an adjunct to the range of cosmetic treatments they offer to the patients. In spite of few pit falls, weighing the amount of psychological benefit to the patient, it is quite a breakthrough in the field of cosmetic surgery in the treatment of gingival smiles. This article elaborates on the treatment of gummy smile through orofacial biomodelation with Botulinum toxin, which creates a shield in the canine fossa area, avoiding the exaggerated gingival display on smiling due to a wide action of the levator muscle of angle of mouth.(201 words)