Gummy Smile
Gummy Smile Treatment in Brattleby & Lincoln
What is a gummy smile?
A gummy smile occurs when an excessive amount of gum tissue is visible above the upper teeth when smiling. This can affect facial aesthetics, sometimes making the smile appear disproportionate or overly prominent.
A gummy smile is often caused by overactive upper lip muscles, structural dental or jaw differences, or a combination of both. Treatment focuses on subtly reducing gum exposure and improving lip proportion while maintaining a natural, expressive smile.
Symptoms
Signs of a gummy smile include:
Excessive gum visibility when smiling
Upper lip appearing short or overly elevated
Smile appearing asymmetrical or unbalanced
Difficulty achieving proportional lip-to-gum ratio
Self-consciousness about smiling or facial expressions
A gummy smile can vary in severity from mild to more pronounced.
Causes
A gummy smile can develop due to:
- Overactive muscles of the upper lip (levator labii superioris alaeque nasi)
- Short or thin upper lip
- Jaw or dental structural differences
- Age-related changes in lip support or soft tissue
- Genetics and natural facial proportions
Treatment often addresses muscle activity and may also involve subtle structural support for the lips.
Who can it affect?
A gummy smile can affect adults and younger patients who have natural or structural variation in upper lip movement or proportion.
It is particularly common in people who:
- Have an overactive upper lip muscle
- Desire a more balanced and proportionate smile
- Wish to reduce excessive gum visibility while maintaining expression
Even subtle adjustments can significantly improve smile aesthetics and facial harmony.
Treatment Options
Treatment focuses on reducing excessive lip elevation and supporting lip structure, creating a balanced, natural smile.
A combination of botulinum toxin and, in some cases, soft tissue filler is often used for optimal results.
Botulinum Toxin
Botulinum toxin injections relax the muscles responsible for lifting the upper lip excessively.
Benefits include:
- Reducing gum exposure when smiling
- Softening overactive upper lip movement
- Quick treatment with minimal downtime
- Maintaining natural facial expression
Results typically appear within days and last several months.
Soft Tissue Fillers
Dermal filler lip enhancement may be used in some cases to subtly support the upper lip, improve proportion, and enhance symmetry.
They can help:
- Add volume to the upper lip if needed
- Support a balanced lip-to-gum ratio
- Complement neuromodulator treatment for optimal smile aesthetics
- Maintain natural expression and harmony
Ready to Refresh Your Look?
Every face is unique. During your consultation, we’ll assess your concerns, discuss your goals, and design a bespoke treatment plan tailored to you.