A gummy smile—where excessive gum tissue shows above your upper teeth when you smile—can cause significant self-consciousness. Many people learn to smile with their mouth closed or cover their smile with their hand. At Forever Facial Aesthetics, we offer a simple, non-surgical solution using anti-wrinkle injections that reduces gum display and transforms confidence in your smile.
- Reduces excessive gum display when smiling
- Quick 10-15 minute treatment
- No surgery or recovery time
- Results visible within days
- Natural smile preserved
- Results last 3-4 months
Understanding Gummy Smile
A gummy smile occurs when more than 2-3mm of gum tissue shows above your upper teeth when smiling. Several factors can cause this—hyperactive muscles that lift the upper lip too high, a naturally short upper lip, excessive gum tissue, or the way teeth erupted. While not a medical concern, many people feel self-conscious about their smile and avoid showing teeth in photos.
How Treatment Works
For gummy smiles caused by hyperactive lip muscles, anti-wrinkle injections offer an elegant solution. Small amounts of product are injected into specific muscles responsible for lifting the upper lip excessively. This reduces how high the lip rises when smiling, limiting gum display. The treatment is precise—targeting only the muscles causing the issue while preserving your natural smile.
The Treatment Experience
Treatment is remarkably quick and simple—just 10-15 minutes. Dr. Phillips administers tiny injections into specific points above the upper lip. No anaesthesia is typically needed. You can return to normal activities immediately. Results begin appearing within 3-7 days as the muscles gradually relax, revealing a more balanced smile with significantly less gum showing.
Smile with Confidence
The goal is a natural, confident smile—not restricted movement. You'll still smile freely and expressively; the difference is balanced lip elevation that shows teeth without excessive gum. Many patients describe the transformation as life-changing, finally feeling comfortable smiling in photos and social situations. Results last 3-4 months, maintained with periodic treatments.
Recommended Treatments
Anti-Wrinkle Injections
The primary treatment for gummy smile. Relaxes hyperactive lip elevator muscles to reduce gum display naturally.
Learn More →Dermal Fillers
Can complement gummy smile treatment by adding subtle lip volume for enhanced overall appearance.
Learn More →Frequently Asked Questions
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No. The treatment targets specific muscles that lift the upper lip during smiling, not the muscles used for speech or eating. You'll speak, eat, and drink completely normally. The only change is reduced elevation of your upper lip when you smile broadly, showing less gum tissue. Your smile will look and feel natural—just more balanced.
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Results typically last 3-4 months, similar to anti-wrinkle treatments in other areas. Most patients return every 3-4 months for maintenance to sustain their improved smile. Some find that with regular treatment, the muscles become trained and results last slightly longer. The treatment is quick and easy to maintain long-term.
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Most patients find the treatment very comfortable. We use tiny needles for injections into the upper lip area. You may feel a slight pinch, but it's brief and tolerable. No anaesthesia is typically required, though we can apply numbing cream if you're concerned. Any minimal discomfort resolves immediately after the quick procedure.
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Most patients see a 30-50% reduction in gum display, creating a noticeably more balanced smile. The degree of improvement depends on the cause of your gummy smile and your individual anatomy. During consultation, Dr. Phillips will assess your specific situation and provide realistic expectations. Most patients are delighted with their more confident smile.
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This treatment works best for gummy smiles caused by hyperactive lip elevator muscles. If your gummy smile results from other causes—such as excessive gum tissue, small teeth, or jaw position—other treatments like gum contouring or orthodontics may be more appropriate. Dr. Phillips will assess the cause of your gummy smile and recommend the most effective solution.