Reviewed by Dr. Hardeep Dhaliwal
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Reading time: three minutes
A gummy smile occurs when excess gum tissue shows above the upper teeth when smiling. This is often referred to as excessive gingival display. While this is common, some patients prefer a more balanced smile. One of the most effective non-surgical options is using neuromodulators such as Botox to relax the upper lip and reduce excess gum display.
Table of Contents
What Causes a Gummy Smile?
Several factors can contribute to excess gum display. Understanding the underlying cause helps determine the most appropriate treatment.
Common causes include:
- A hyperactive upper lip that lifts too high when smiling
- Excess gum tissue covering the teeth
- Jaw positioning or skeletal structure
- Small or partially erupted teeth
Because each of these causes is different, treatment should be tailored to the individual. In some cases, a non-surgical approach is appropriate. In others, a surgical or dental procedure may provide a better long-term outcome.
How Neuromodulators Help Reduce a Gummy Smile
When excess gum display is caused by a hyperactive upper lip, neuromodulators can help relax the muscles responsible for lifting the lip too high. This allows the upper lip to rest slightly lower when smiling, creating a more balanced appearance.
At ASI Medical Spa, neuromodulator options may include:
Each option works in a similar way. Small, carefully placed injections help achieve natural looking results without affecting normal facial expression.
Treatment typically takes only a few minutes and there is no downtime. Results gradually appear over the following days and help soften excessive gum display when smiling.
When Botox May Not Be the Right Treatment
Not every gummy smile is caused by lip movement. In some cases, the appearance is related to gum tissue, tooth position, or underlying structure rather than muscle activity.
When this is the case, neuromodulators may not provide the desired result. The focus during your consultation is to determine whether this treatment is appropriate based on how your smile functions.
If another type of treatment such as gum contouring is more appropriate, you may be referred to a trusted cosmetic dentist in the area for further evaluation. Because treatment is based on individual anatomy, recommendations are made carefully rather than using a one size approach.
What to Expect From Treatment
Neuromodulator treatment for a gummy smile is quick and minimally invasive. Small amounts of Botox are placed into specific muscles that control upper lip movement.
Patients can expect:
- A short treatment time
- Minimal discomfort
- No downtime
- Natural looking results
Most patients begin to notice improvement within several days, with results continuing to develop over one to two weeks.
Botox for Gummy Smile at ASI Medical Spa
At ASI Medical Spa, treatment is planned with attention to facial anatomy and smile dynamics. Because the medical spa operates within Adara Surgical Institute, treatment decisions are made with a clinical understanding of both soft tissue movement and underlying structure.
Neuromodulator treatments are performed by Shreena, Nurse Practitioner, and Brigid, Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist. Each treatment is tailored to your specific presentation, with careful placement to create a balanced, natural result.
This approach helps avoid overcorrection and ensures that patients receive the right treatment for their specific concern.
Botox for Gummy Smile in Issaquah, WA
To book a consultation at ASI Medical Spa, call (425) 428-5888 or visit us at 6505 226th Pl SE STE, Ste. 101, Issaquah, WA. We are located inside Adara Surgical Institute.
FAQs
How much Botox is needed for a gummy smile?
The amount varies depending on muscle strength and the degree of gum display. Most patients require only a small amount placed in targeted areas.
How long does treatment last?
Results typically last three to four months. Maintenance treatments help preserve results over time.
Will my smile still look natural?
Yes. The goal is to reduce excessive gum display while maintaining natural movement and facial expression.
