Gummy Smile
Reduce excess gum show when you smile with a precise dose of Botox. Five minutes, no surgery, 3 to 4 months of results.
Causes and Treatment
A gummy smile is when 3mm or more of gum tissue shows above your upper teeth when smiling. The cause is usually an overactive levator labii superioris muscle (the muscle that lifts the upper lip). Some patients have always had a gummy smile; others develop it as the upper lip thins with age.
The most efficient treatment is a precise micro-dose of Botox in the levator muscles on each side of the nose. This relaxes the muscle so the lip doesn't lift quite as high when smiling. The smile remains fully natural; the only change is the gum show is reduced.
The treatment takes 5 minutes and lasts 3 to 4 months. For patients who consistently retreat over a year or two, the muscles often weaken further and durations extend.
Better Med Spa's Recommended Treatments
Gummy smile is a neuromodulator treatment. Better's specific protocol uses a small precise dose to keep the smile natural.
Gummy Smile Treatment
Better's specific protocol for reducing gum show. Precise micro-dose of neuromodulator at the base of each side of the nose to relax the levator muscle.
Lip Flip
Botox in the upper lip muscle to roll the lip slightly outward. Often combined with gummy smile treatment for layered results: less gum show plus a more pronounced upper lip.
Botox
The standard neuromodulator. First-time patients typically use Botox for gummy smile treatment.
First time? Most gummy smile patients start with Botox. The treatment takes 5 minutes and you'll see results within 7 to 14 days. We start with a conservative dose and adjust at follow-up if more reduction is desired.
How to Choose Between Them
Match the treatment to your specific situation.
| If you want | Choose |
|---|---|
| Just gum show reduction | Gummy Smile Treatment with Botox |
| Gum show plus thin upper lip | Gummy Smile + Lip Flip combo |
| Pre-event, fast onset | Dysport version |
| Long duration | DAXXIFY |
| Combined with face Botox | Single neuromodulator across areas |
| Maximum lip enhancement | Gummy Smile + Lip Flip + Lip Filler |
Gummy smile treatment doesn't require lip filler, but many patients add a Lip Flip at the same time for a more pronounced upper lip. The combination produces a smile that looks both more even (less gum) and fuller.
Realistic expectations: visible reduction in gum show within 2 weeks, lasting 3 to 4 months. Most patients retreat 2 to 3 times per year.
What to Expect at Better Med Spa
Gummy smile visits take 5 minutes total. The injection is at the base of each side of the nose. You'll feel a small pinch. There's no downtime.
Results visible in 7 to 14 days on Botox, 2 to 5 days on Dysport. Most patients see meaningful reduction at 2 weeks and full effect at 1 month.
Dr. Brechner supervises all neuromodulator protocols.
Ready to talk to one of our providers?
A 15-minute consultation evaluates your smile and recommends the right starting dose.
Before and After
See real Better Med Spa patient results in our gallery. Individual results vary based on starting point, dosage, and skin quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my smile look natural?
Yes. The dose is small and precise. Your smile remains fully natural; the only change is reduced gum show. Most patients say their smile looks more balanced.
How long does it last?
3 to 4 months on Botox, Dysport, or Xeomin. With consistent treatment, the muscle weakens slightly and durations can extend over time.
Can I get this with lip filler?
Yes. Many patients combine gummy smile treatment with Lip Flip or Lip Filler for a more comprehensive smile enhancement.
Most patients describe the injections as a series of small pinches. We use the smallest needles available and can apply topical numbing cream on request. The whole appointment is typically under 30 minutes including the consultation.
How much will my gum show reduce?
Typically 2 to 4mm reduction, which makes a visible difference in photos and in person. Severity varies; we discuss realistic expectations at consultation.
How much does it cost?
Gummy Smile Treatment uses a small dose. Pricing scales with units. See our Specials.
Related Reading
Where We Serve
Better Med Spa is located in Lincoln Park and serves patients across Chicago, including Old Town, Lakeview, Bucktown, Gold Coast, DePaul, West Loop, and River North.
Ready to love your smile in photos again?
Schedule a consultation and we will build a plan that fits you, your timeline, and your budget.