Gummy Smile

A gummy smile is when more gum than you’d like shows above the upper teeth when you smile. It’s not a medical concern, but many people choose to treat it for a more balanced, confident look.

What causes a gummy smile?

  • Hyperactive upper-lip muscles: The lip lifts higher than average when you smile.

  • Upper-lip length & support: A naturally short or lightly supported lip reveals more gum.

  • Gum/tooth proportions: Dental factors can increase gingival display.

Best suited for

  • Excess gum showing when smiling or laughing

  • Good dental health and realistic expectations

  • Patients seeking a quick, non-surgical solution

  • Not suitable if pregnant/breastfeeding, with certain neuromuscular conditions, or active skin infection.

Your treatment journey

  1. Medical consultation: Full facial and smile assessment; discuss goals and suitability.

  2. Personalised plan: Clear guidance on options, expected results, and maintenance.

  3. Treatment: Gentle, precise placement for a natural, proportionate smile.

  4. Review: Routine check at ~2 weeks for fine-tuning if needed.


Aftercare (quick guide)

  • Stay upright for 4 hours post-treatment; avoid pressing or rubbing the area.

  • Skip strenuous exercise, saunas and hot baths for 24 hours.

  • Keep the area clean; avoid heavy makeup that day.

  • Minor redness or pin-pricks usually settle within hours.

Treatment options at our clinic

Anti-wrinkle injections (upper-lip lift control)

How it works: Precise micro-doses relax the muscles that over-elevate the upper lip (e.g., LLSAN/LLS), so the lip rests slightly lower on smiling—reducing gum exposure while keeping expression natural.

At a glance:

  • Procedure time: 10–15 minutes

  • Onset: 3–7 days; peak: ~2 weeks

  • Longevity: ~3–4 months (varies)

  • Downtime: Minimal; most daily activities are fine straight after

Optional enhancers

Subtle lip filler can add gentle support to the upper lip for selected patients, complementing muscle relaxation. This is assessed case by case during consultation.

Results & expectations

  • Aim is a more balanced smile with less gum showing while keeping your natural expression.

  • Maintenance is typically every 3–4 months; some patients space appointments further apart over time.

  • Combination with subtle lip filler may be recommended for additional support where appropriate.

Ready to rebalance your smile?

Book a £30 consultation (credited against treatment) to assess your smile and create a tailored plan for reducing the amount of gum on show

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes—doses are conservative to reduce amount of gum on show without freezing your smile.

Most patients report only brief, mild discomfort.

Changes begin within a few days and settle by around two weeks.

Aesthetic Concerns

Explore the concerns we treat—from lines and jawline shape to skin health, hair loss and more.

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