Gummy smile

Three reasons more gum shows

• An overactive upper lip. The muscle that lifts the lip pulls it higher than usual when you smile, exposing the gum line.
• A short upper lip. The lip itself is shorter, so it covers less of the gum.
• Excess gum tissue or jaw structure. Genetics can mean more gum tissue over the teeth, or a jaw shape that brings the gums into view.

More than one factor can be involved. Anti-wrinkle injections work on the first: they act on muscle, so they do not change gum tissue, tooth length or the shape of the jaw. At consultation your practitioner will watch how your lip moves as you smile and talk, and tell you honestly whether injections are likely to help.

What the treatment involves

Skin House uses anti-wrinkle injections placed into the muscle that raises the upper lip. Softening its pull lets the lip sit a little lower over the gums when you smile. The appointment takes 15 to 30 minutes, discomfort is very mild, and one session is usually all that is needed. The aim is a more balanced, natural-looking smile without affecting your speech or normal expressions.

How long results last

Anti-wrinkle injections take a few days to settle, so the full effect is not visible as you leave the clinic. Results for a gummy smile typically last three to six months. As the muscle gradually regains its strength the gum line returns towards its old position, and the treatment can be repeated as needed.

If the lip is the real concern

Some people who ask about a gummy smile are mainly unhappy with the shape of the upper lip itself. Lip enhancement uses hyaluronic acid filler to add volume, define the lip border and correct asymmetry, and it can be discussed alongside or instead of injections. If you would like to look at the balance of the lower face as a whole, including the chin and jawline, dermal fillers can be assessed at the same free consultation.

Aftercare

There is no downtime, so you can go back to work or your day straight after the appointment. Your practitioner will give you aftercare instructions and explain when to return if you would like the result reviewed. Suitability for any injectable is confirmed at consultation, where you can also ask about combining treatments for the lips and lower face.