Gummy Smile Softening Injections Edmonton
A gummy smile happens when the upper lip lifts high enough to show more gum tissue than you’d like when you smile. This is often driven by strong upper-lip elevator muscles, and it can make some patients feel self-conscious in photos or social settings. Precise neuromodulator injections can relax these muscles to reduce gum show while keeping your smile natural. For a complete facial movement assessment, start with our Botox and neuromodulator treatment overview.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Botox Gummy‑Smile Treatment?
When gummy smile treatment is dosed correctly, the upper lip lifts a little less, so the smile looks more balanced and gums are less visible. Results often start appearing within 3–5 days and typically reach their peak by 10–14 days. The change is subtle but noticeable—especially in photos—while still preserving a warm, expressive smile. Most patients maintain results for about 3–4 months.
How Gummy Smile Treatment Works
A gummy smile can have different causes, including muscle pull, lip shape, tooth/gum anatomy, or jaw position. Neuromodulators specifically address the muscle-driven type by relaxing the upper-lip elevators (commonly the levator labii superioris alaeque nasi and related muscles). This reduces the vertical lift of the upper lip during smiling, decreasing gum exposure. Because this area affects speech and expression, dosing is conservative and highly individualized.
| What you notice | What it may suggest | How we approach it |
|---|---|---|
| Gums show mainly when smiling | Muscle-driven lift | Targeted upper-lip relaxation |
| Upper lip looks short at rest | Anatomy contributes | Discuss combined options |
| Smile feels tight or pulls upward | Strong elevator muscles | Conservative dosing + symmetry |
In consultation, we assess how your lip moves at rest and on full smile, and whether asymmetry is present. If gum show is primarily structural (rather than muscle-driven), we’ll explain why neuromodulators may have limited benefit and discuss alternatives that better match your anatomy.
To learn more about the science behind neuromodulator injections, read how neuromodulators work. For guidance on minimizing bruising and protecting your results, see prep and aftercare guidelines.
If you’re considering other smile-related refinements, we can also review complementary options during your visit to keep the overall result natural and balanced.
