Gummy smile
A gummy smile means that relatively much gum is visible above the upper teeth when smiling. This can be perceived as cosmetically bothersome, even though it is usually medically harmless. The cause often lies in an overactive muscle in the upper lip, causing the lip to pull up too far when laughing.
A gummy smile can be treated in various ways, depending on the cause. In many cases, a Botox treatment is chosen that temporarily reduces muscle activity. Because anatomy, smile line and muscle strength differ per person, it is important to carefully compare treatments and clinics.
In short: this is what you need to know about a gummy smile treatment
• A gummy smile is often caused by an overactive upper lip muscle
• Most chosen treatment: Botox
• Botox relaxes the muscle that pulls the lip upward
• Results visible within 3–14 days
• Effect lasts on average 3–4 months
• Treatment takes approximately 10–15 minutes
• Comparing helps with a natural and safe choice
Why results and experiences with a gummy smile treatment can differ
What can go wrong with a gummy smile treatment?
With a gummy smile treatment, something can go wrong if the dosage or injection site is not correct. Botulinum toxin reduces the activity of the muscles that lift the upper lip, but too high a dose can cause excessive muscle relaxation. This may result in the upper lip moving too little, leading to an unnatural smile or difficulty speaking and drinking. Asymmetry can also occur if muscle activity is inhibited unevenly. In rare cases, spread of the product to surrounding muscles can cause temporary changes in function.
How do you recognize a less successful gummy smile treatment?
A less successful gummy smile treatment usually results from incorrect dosage or injection placement. Botulinum toxin inhibits the muscles that lift the upper lip, but excessive or uneven relaxation can disrupt lip movement. This may cause the smile to become asymmetrical or the upper lip to hang too low during speaking or laughing. Insufficient correction can also occur if muscle activity is not adequately reduced. The result is then an unnatural smile or continued visibility of gum tissue when smiling.
How much Botox do you typically need for a gummy smile?
The amount of Botox varies per person and depends on the strength of the upper lip muscles and the degree of gum visibility. On average, low dosages are used, often between 2 and 8 units distributed over multiple injection points. More units do not automatically mean a better result; a subtle, customized dosage usually ensures a natural smile. During the consultation, the doctor determines what is appropriate.
When do you see the real result of a gummy smile treatment?
The real result of a gummy smile treatment becomes visible when botulinum toxin has sufficiently inhibited the signal transmission between nerve and muscle. This process takes time because the release of acetylcholine is gradually blocked. Visible muscle relaxation usually occurs within a few days, with maximum effect after approximately one to two weeks. The muscles that lift the upper lip then reduce their activity, making less gum visible when smiling. The final result is assessed once muscle function has fully stabilized.
What is the difference between a gummy smile treatment and a lip filler?
The difference between a gummy smile treatment and a lip filler lies in the mechanism of action and the target tissue. A gummy smile treatment uses botulinum toxin to relax the muscles that lift the upper lip, reducing gum visibility when smiling. A lip filler usually contains hyaluronic acid and adds volume to the lip tissue by attracting water and filling space in the connective tissue. Botulinum toxin therefore affects muscle activity, while a filler changes the shape and thickness of the lip. As a result, the indication, effect and treatment outcome differ.
What is a gummy smile treatment & how does it work?
Gummy smile treatment in brief
• Type of treatment: cosmetic / injectable
• Goal: less visibility of gum tissue when smiling
• Visible result: yes
• Average duration: 10–15 minutes
• Main success factor: correct dosage and precise placement
What does Botox do for a gummy smile?
Botox temporarily relaxes the muscle that lifts the upper lip (levator labii superioris). As a result, the lip rises less and less gum tissue becomes visible.
Is the effect of a gummy smile treatment permanent?
No. Botox works temporarily and must be repeated to maintain the effect.
When do you see results after a gummy smile treatment?
Usually within 3 to 14 days, with a check-up around two weeks.
What can go wrong with a gummy smile treatment?
With a gummy smile treatment using botulinum toxin, mild side effects such as swelling, redness or sensitivity at the injection site may occur. Botulinum toxin inhibits the release of acetylcholine, causing the elevator muscles of the upper lip to contract less forcefully. With too high a dosage or incorrect placement, temporary reduced lip mobility or slight asymmetry may occur. These effects generally disappear as the neuromuscular blockade decreases.
How do you recognize a less successful gummy smile treatment?
A less successful treatment may present as limited mobility of the upper lip or an unnatural smile. This occurs when muscle activity has been inhibited too strongly. Excessive relaxation affects the balance between lip elevation and facial expression. As a result, smiling appears less dynamic.
How much botulinum toxin is typically needed for a gummy smile?
The required amount depends on muscle strength and the degree of gum exposure. Usually, 2 to 8 units are sufficient to subtly reduce lip elevation. A low, targeted dosage limits the risk of overcorrection. Therefore, precision is central rather than quantity.
When do you see the final result of a gummy smile treatment?
The effect develops gradually after injection. Botulinum toxin needs time to block signal transmission in the treated muscles. Around two weeks, maximum muscle relaxation is reached. The final result can therefore be assessed at that time.
Popular treatments for a gummy smile
• Botox gummy smile: reduces muscle activity
• Lip flip: subtle support of the upper lip
• Dental correction: for structural gum-related issues
Gummy Smile result, duration & safety
Botox for a gummy smile creates a more subtle smile with less visible gum tissue.
Average duration of effect: 3 to 4 months
Safety is determined by:
• Correct dosage
• The doctor’s experience
• Proper consultation
• Analysis of the smile line and lip shape
How long does a gummy smile treatment last & aftercare
Botox works on average for 3 to 4 months.
Aftercare:
• Do not lie down for the first 4 hours
• Do not massage
• No intense physical activity during the first 24 hours
• Check-up after 2 weeks
Gummy smile suitable for / less suitable
Suitable if:
• You show a lot of gum when smiling
• You are looking for a non-surgical solution
• You want a more subtle smile profile
Less suitable if:
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Neuromuscular disorders
• Structural gum problems that need dental treatment
How do you determine if a gummy smile treatment suits you?
- 1 How much gum is visible when smiling?
- 2 Is the cause muscle activity or tooth structure?
- 3 Do you want a temporary or permanent solution?
- 4 Does the doctor have experience with lip muscle anatomy?
- 5 Is a follow-up appointment scheduled?
Gummy smile prices, experiences & comparison
Costs vary per clinic and required units. Comparing provides insight into market prices, experience and quality.
| Treatment | Unit | City/country | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gummy Smile botox | Treatment | United Kingdom | £ 50 | Lowest price |
| Gummy Smile botox | Treatment | United Kingdom | £ 142 | Average price |
| Gummy Smile botox | Treatment | United Kingdom | £ 350 | Highest price |
Gummy smile experiences: what do people really pay attention to?
• A natural-looking smile
• Subtle difference
• No stiff upper lip
• Clear explanation during consultation
• Transparent costs
Reviews gummy smile treatment
Faye who I had my treatment with was beyond amazing. She is so kind, approachable and knowledgable, and when I let her know I was a bit nervous, she was so considerate. Faye understood exactly what I wanted, and I couldn’t be happier with my treatment. I’ve had so many compliments and I could honestly cry at how much it has improved my confidence - I feel amazing!! I’ll be recommending Dr Ed Robinson aesthetics and Faye to everyone I know as her work is amazing! Show less »
Would 100% recommend Debbie to anyone thinking about getting a few tweaks done to their face, the whole team are friendly, professional, knowledgeable and make you feel welcome and at ease.
Thank you Debbie and team xxx Show less »
Gummy smile treatment compared with alternatives
Botox vs lip flip
A lip flip also affects the upper lip, but is less focused on reducing gum visibility than a specific gummy smile treatment.
Botox vs dental correction
With a gum or jaw structure issue, a dental procedure may be more suitable.
Gummy Smile comparing doctors & clinics
Compare on:
• Experience with lip muscle Botox
• Transparency about risks
• Consultation quality
• Reviews
Cosmetic specialists in United Kingdom
- Botox zone from
- £ 195,00
- Filler per ml from
- £ 275,00
- Botox zone from
- -
- Filler per ml from
- -
- Botox zone from
- £ 185,00
- Filler per ml from
- £ 235,00
- Botox zone from
- £ 175,00
- Filler per ml from
- £ 275,00
- Botox zone from
- -
- Filler per ml from
- -
Gummy smile differences between clinics
• Personal analysis of the smile line
• Subtle customized dosing
• Aftercare and follow-up
• Clear pricing structure
Compare clinics in United Kingdom
viewed
- Botox zone from
- £ 180,00
- Filler per ml from
- £ 250,00
- Profhilo per 2 ml from
- £ 300,00
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- Botox zone from
- -
- Filler per ml from
- £ 250,00
- Profhilo per 2 ml from
- -
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- Botox zone from
- £ 135,00
- Filler per ml from
- £ 199,00
- Profhilo per 2 ml from
- £ 325,00
viewed
- Botox zone from
- £ 129,00
- Filler per ml from
- £ 250,00
- Profhilo per 2 ml from
- £ 259,00
viewed
- Botox zone from
- £ 135,00
- Filler per ml from
- £ 199,00
- Profhilo per 2 ml from
- £ 325,00
viewed
- Botox zone from
- £ 129,00
- Filler per ml from
- £ 250,00
- Profhilo per 2 ml from
- £ 259,00
viewed
- Botox zone from
- £ 129,00
- Filler per ml from
- £ 250,00
- Profhilo per 2 ml from
- £ 259,00
viewed
- Botox zone from
- £ 129,00
- Filler per ml from
- £ 250,00
- Profhilo per 2 ml from
- £ 259,00
Frequently asked questions about a gummy smile treatment
What is a gummy smile?
A gummy smile, also called a gum smile, is a situation in which relatively much gum becomes visible above the upper teeth when smiling. This usually occurs due to strong activity of the upper lip muscles, a short upper lip or vertical overgrowth of the upper jaw. Because of these anatomical or muscle-related factors, the upper lip lifts higher than average. The visible amount of gum determines whether it is classified as a gummy smile.
How do you get rid of a gummy smile?
The treatment depends on the cause. With overactive lip muscles, botulinum toxin can temporarily reduce muscle activity, causing the upper lip to lift less. In anatomical causes, such as an abnormal jaw position or excess gum tissue, dental or surgical procedures may be considered. The chosen method focuses on correcting the underlying cause to reduce gum exposure.
How long does a gummy smile last?
A gummy smile is usually a stable anatomical or muscle-related characteristic and does not disappear spontaneously. Without treatment, the degree of gum visibility generally remains the same. With treatment using botulinum toxin, the effect is temporary and lasts on average 3 to 4 months. Surgical corrections can provide longer-lasting or permanent results.
Is there a treatment for a gummy smile without botox?
Yes, alternatives depend on the cause. Gum contouring can remove excess gum tissue, making the teeth appear longer. Orthodontic treatment can correct the position of the teeth and jaw. In some cases, a lip repositioning procedure is performed, in which the mobility of the upper lip is surgically limited.
Can you get rid of a gum smile naturally?
A gummy smile is usually caused by anatomical or muscle-related factors that cannot be changed with exercises or home treatments. Muscle training generally does not permanently affect the height of the upper lip when smiling. Without medical or dental intervention, gum exposure usually remains unchanged. Natural methods therefore do not provide structural correction.
A gummy smile treatment with Botox is a quick and relatively simple way to make less gum visible when smiling. The result is subtle and temporary, but can make a significant difference in appearance and self-confidence.
The final outcome depends on muscle activity, anatomy and the experience of the practitioner. By comparing clinics, prices and experiences, you make an informed choice for safety, a natural result and satisfaction.