A gummy smile occurs when the upper lip moves too far up, exposing at least four millimeters of gum tissue when smiling. Common causes include a hyperactive upper lip elevator muscle, a naturally shorter upper lip, certain dental conditions, and medications that stimulate gum overgrowth. Fortunately, modern cosmetic treatments can effectively correct this disproportion and make the smile more aesthetically pleasing.
This article explains how Botox can fix a gummy smile with minimal downtime and natural-looking results.
Can Botox Fix a Gummy Smile?
Botox can temporarily correct a gummy smile by relaxing the muscles between the nose and upper lip, thereby limiting upper lip movement. This powerful neurotoxin is injected into the levator labii superioris alaeque nasi (LLSAN), the muscle responsible for lifting the upper lip when we smile.
By reducing upper lip hyperactivity, Botox creates a more balanced, natural-looking smile. After treatment, the upper lip will reveal only your teeth, not your gums, with results typically lasting three to four months.
What Are the Benefits of Botox for a Gummy Smile?
The benefits of getting Botox for a gummy smile include:
- Non-invasive procedure
- Immediate results
- Natural-looking smile
- Adjustable injection dosage
- Temporary and reversible
- Minimal downtime
- Cost-effectiveness
Note: For more information, refer to our guide to the pros and cons of Botox.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Gummy Smile Botox?
Although a gummy smile is more common in women and young adults, this quick, non-surgical treatment can benefit anyone who meets certain criteria. Gummy smile Botox is best suited for healthy adults whose excessive gum display is primarily caused by upper lip hyperactivity.
A suitable candidate is someone who:
- Is in good health overall.
- Has no active infections, allergies, or dental conditions.
- Is not pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Has mild-to-moderate gummy smile asymmetries.
- Experiences excessive gum exposure mainly when smiling.
- Is seeking a non-surgical, temporary solution with minimal downtime.
It is important, however, to have realistic expectations from the procedure. Patients with excessive gingival display caused by lower face anatomy, teeth abnormalities, or medications should seek alternative solutions.
How to Prepare for a Gummy Smile Botox Treatment?
Preparing for Botox requires minimal effort but maximizes treatment effectiveness while reducing potential side effects, such as bruising, bumps, or swelling.
For optimal results, follow these guidelines:
- Avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, and vitamin E, unless prescribed by your doctor.
- Refrain from alcohol consumption for at least 24 hours before the appointment.
- Arrive with a clean, makeup-free face, and use only gentle skincare products around the mouth.
- Inform your provider about any medical conditions, allergies, or previous Botox treatments.
- Discuss prior experiences with Botox, including side effects or Botox resistance.
- Postpone treatment if you have cold sores, active infections, or inflammation near the injection site.
What to Expect During Gummy Smile Botox Treatment?
Gummy smile Botox is a quick, straightforward procedure that easily fits into a busy schedule.
The treatment typically lasts 10 to 15 minutes and entails the following steps:
- A brief consultation and facial assessment to determine the exact injection points.
- Cleansing of the treatment area and applying numbing cream to reduce discomfort.
- Marking of precise injection sites and targeting the exact treatment areas.
- Injecting two to five Botox units per side to temporarily paralyze the LLSAN muscle.
During the procedure, you may feel mild pressure or a brief pinching or stinging sensation, but no anesthesia is required. Most patients return to normal activities immediately.
Where to Inject Botox to Fix a Gummy Smile?
The provider injects Botox into the upper lip elevator muscle known as LLSAN (levator labii superioris alaeque nasi). Injections are carefully measured and placed on each side of the nose to ensure symmetrical features and a natural, balanced smile.
How Deep Will Gummy Smile Botox Be Injected?
The injection depth is shallow and targets only the muscles responsible for upper lip contraction.
The provider inserts a fine needle, typically 13 mm in length and 6 to 7 mm in diameter, into the skin. Small doses of Botulinum toxin A reduce the muscle’s activity and limit excessive lip elevation without affecting deeper structures.
How Many Units of Gummy Smile Botox Will Be Injected?
The number of Botox units depends on muscle strength, facial anatomy, and sex. On average, women need 2-5 units per side to fix a gummy smile, while men need slightly higher doses because their muscles are more prominent.
Pre-treatment consultations with the medical provider are necessary to determine the exact number of units required for the desired effect. During the assessment, the provider evaluates facial asymmetries, smile dynamics, and muscle activity to ensure effective results.
Does Gummy Smile Botox Hurt?
Botox for a gummy smile is generally well-tolerated and causes minimal discomfort. Most patients describe the sensation as light pressure and brief stinging or pinching that lasts only a few seconds.
Gummy Smile Botox Results
The effects typically appear within one to two weeks and last three to four months, depending on the patient’s metabolism, muscle strength, and lifestyle.
The small amount of Botox required for the procedure reduces the longevity of Botox results, as does the constant movement of the muscle during talking, eating, and drinking. Once the results fade, the treatment can be safely repeated to maintain the desired appearance. Patients report that follow-up treatments eventually prolong the “no gummy smile” intervals.
You can combine this procedure with the Botox lip flip to enhance smile symmetry and create height in the upper lip body.
How Long Does Gummy Smile Botox Last?
The initial effects are visible after 3 to 7 days, but full results can take up to 2 weeks to appear. Upper lip movement gradually decreases, ceasing entirely two weeks after the treatment.
The results vary from patient to patient and may last three to four months with optimal maintenance. You can extend the duration with follow-up sessions when the results start wearing off, at least 12 weeks after the initial treatment.
Gummy Smile Botox Aftercare
Proper Botox aftercare minimizes swelling, bruising, and bumps, while reducing the risk of other complications. Following recommended post-treatment care also enhances the results and maintains a natural, balanced smile.
What to Do After Gummy Smile Botox?
Adhere to the following guidelines:
- Stay hydrated to support muscle health and overall skin resilience.
- Gently massage the area if recommended by your provider.
- Keep your head elevated for several hours to allow the injected Botox to settle evenly.
- Maintain good oral hygiene and dental care to preserve a healthy smile.
- Use natural facial movements while talking, smiling, and mimicking.
What Not to Do After Gummy Smile Botox?
Refrain from the following activities:
- Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before and after the treatment.
- Skip the gym and vigorous exercise on the day of the procedure.
- Don’t lie down or bend your neck for the first four hours.
- Avoid heat and direct sunlight exposure.
- Refrain from touching, pressing, or rubbing the treated area.
- Do not apply makeup or any harsh cosmetic products.
- Avoid taking blood-thinning medication (e.g., ibuprofen).
Gummy Smile Botox Side Effects
Downtime is minimal, and side effects are typically minor and temporary, such as the following:
- Discomfort
- Bruising
- Swelling
- Skin bumps
- Overinjection (e.g., puffiness, frozen face)
- Nausea
- Upper lip lengthening
- Asymmetric smile
- Droopy eyelid
Serious post-treatment complications occur rarely and include the following:
- Numbness
- Infection
- Difficulty swallowing
- Difficulty breathing
- Blurred vision
- Muscle weakness
- Allergic reaction
- Botox resistance
A well-trained Botox provider can prevent an undesired outcome with optimal dosage and precise puncturing techniques. Most side effects are mild and subside within a week or two. If they become more severe, seek immediate professional medical help.
Should Anyone Avoid Gummy Smile Botox?
Botox for a gummy smile is not recommended if any of the following apply to you:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding
- Active infections, cold sores, or inflammation
- Known allergies to botulinum toxin
- Neuromuscular disorders
- Severe dental or skeletal issues
- Taking medications that interfere with Botox
- Having unrealistic expectations
- Seeking permanent results
How Much Does Botox for a Gummy Smile Cost?
At Vibrant Skin Bar, a gummy smile Botox treatment costs between $250 and $750, depending on your gummy smile condition and what you expect from the procedure.
You can also schedule a Botox Lip Flip for $125 to create a fuller, more sculpted lip. This service is offered at a flat rate, regardless of the number of units used, and is complimentary on Fridays if combined with a lip filler.
Does Insurance Cover Gummy Smile Botox?
Like most cosmetic procedures, gummy smile Botox is not covered by insurance. Coverage is typically available if Botox is used to treat a medical condition, such as muscle spasticity or chronic migraines.
Gummy Smile Botox FAQ
Read the answers to the most frequently asked questions about Botox for a gummy smile.
Gummy Smile Botox vs. Lip Flip
A gummy smile Botox treatment can be combined with a Botox lip flip procedure for enhanced results. However, these two procedures are not the same.
The following table highlights their differences and similarities.
| Gummy smile Botox | Botox lip flip | |
| What does it do? | Reduces excessive gum exposure by relaxing the upper lip elevator muscles. | Creates a subtle outward curl of the upper lip to enhance lip height and fullness. |
| Who is it for? | Patients with a mild to moderate gummy smile caused by upper lip hyperactivity. | Patients seeking subtle lip enhancement, a fuller-looking upper lip, or a pout. |
| Key benefits | Minimizes gum visibility while smiling. | Enhances the upper lip’s appearance, making it look fuller and slightly flipped outward. |
| Longevity | Three to four months. | Two to four months. |
Note: Read about how lip flip differs from lip filler and how to choose between the two.
Can You Kiss After Gummy Smile Botox?
Botox injections are precise, so it’s important to avoid touching or manipulating the treated area immediately after treatment. It is best to avoid kissing for at least four hours after the treatment to allow the substance to settle properly and prevent unintended spread of the neurotoxin.
Is Gummy Smile Botox Safe?
Yes, gummy smile Botox is generally considered safe when performed by a qualified medical professional. It is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that poses little to no health risks if you are a suitable candidate.
Conclusion
Gummy smile Botox can boost your self-esteem and help you feel more confident when you smile. This quick, non-surgical treatment provides a natural-looking, balanced smile, with results that can be maintained long-term through regular follow-up appointments.
If you are ready to enhance your smile and transform your look, contact our team of Botox specialists at Vibrant Skin for more information.
