A “gummy smile” is when more of your gums show than you would like when you smile. It is very common and completely harmless, but some people feel self-conscious about it. For many, a small amount of Botox is a quick, non-surgical way to soften it.
What causes a gummy smile?
There are several possible causes, and they need different treatments:
- An upper lip that lifts high. The muscles that raise the lip are very active, so the lip rises further than average when you smile. This is the cause Botox treats.
- A short upper lip.
- Extra gum tissue covering part of the teeth, so they look short.
- Teeth that did not fully emerge from the gums.
- The upper jaw’s growth pattern. In some people the upper jaw is longer vertically.
Often it is a combination. Knowing which cause is driving your gummy smile is the key to choosing the right treatment.
How gummy smile Botox works
A few small injections are placed into the muscles that lift the upper lip. Botox relaxes those muscles slightly, so when you smile, the lip does not rise as high and covers more of the gums. Your smile still looks natural, just with less gum showing.
What to expect
The appointment
It takes only a few minutes. The injections use a very fine needle, and many people describe a brief pinch.
Results
You will start to notice a change within a few days, with the full effect usually showing at about one to two weeks.
How long it lasts
Results usually last around three to four months. As the effect wears off, your smile gradually returns to how it was, and treatment can be repeated if you liked the result.
Side effects
Usually mild and temporary: small bruises or tenderness at the injection sites, and occasionally a slightly uneven smile for a short time while the effect settles.
Who is a good candidate?
Botox suits cases where an active upper lip is the main cause of the gummy smile. It is less effective, or not suitable, when the cause is extra gum tissue, short teeth or jaw structure.
It may also not be suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or with certain neuromuscular conditions. Your dentist will review your health history first.
Alternatives to Botox for a gummy smile
| Cause | Treatment that may suit |
|---|---|
| Extra gum tissue, teeth look short | Gum contouring to reshape the gumline |
| Teeth in the wrong vertical position | Orthodontic treatment |
| Upper jaw growth pattern | Jaw surgery, for significant cases |
| Short teeth from wear | Restorative treatment to rebuild tooth length |
Sometimes a plan combines treatments, for example gum contouring with a smile makeover.
Botox in a dental office
Dentists have detailed knowledge of the muscles of the face, lips and jaw, and many use Botox both for cosmetic reasons and for jaw pain and clenching. At Vigée Dental, Dr. Nicole Robins uses therapeutic Botox for jaw pain and clenching. If a gummy smile bothers you, a consultation is a good place to talk through the options that suit your smile.
Learn about our therapeutic Botox for TMJ and clenching, explore our cosmetic dentistry, or book a consultation online.
Frequently asked questions
Is gummy smile Botox permanent?
No. Results usually last about three to four months. Treatment can be repeated.
Does gummy smile Botox look natural?
When the dose is right, yes. The goal is to lower the lip slightly, not to stop you from smiling.
Does it hurt?
Many people feel a brief pinch. The appointment takes only a few minutes.
Can a dentist do Botox?
Yes. Dentists with the appropriate training can provide Botox, both for cosmetic reasons such as a gummy smile and for therapeutic reasons such as jaw clenching.