Treatment options
and downtime.
Neurotoxin
Downtime: No downtime (mild redness
or pinpoint swelling at injection site,
resolves within hours)
injectable treatments
Gummy Smile
A gummy smile — where a disproportionate amount of upper gum tissue shows during a full smile — is most often caused by hyperactivity of the elevator muscles of the upper lip. When the cause is muscular, a small dose of neurotoxin placed into the levator labii superioris alaeque nasi limits how far the upper lip elevates during smiling, bringing gum exposure into a more proportionate range.
The treatment uses only a few units, takes a few minutes, and produces visible results within five to seven days. It's also one of the more technique-sensitive injections in the practice — the muscle sits in close proximity to those controlling lip movement and smile shape, and conservative dosing with precise placement is what separates a natural result from one that distorts the smile. Dr. Martin evaluates this in the context of overall dental and facial proportion before proceeding, and his familiarity with oral anatomy and gingival display gives him a more complete picture of what's actually driving the concern than most aesthetic providers are positioned to assess.
What causes a gummy smile?
A gummy smile — where more gum tissue than typical is visible during a full smile — has several possible causes. The most common is hyperactivity of the levator labii superioris alaeque nasi, the muscle responsible for elevating the upper lip. Other contributing factors include a short upper lip, excess gingival tissue (which a periodontist can address), or vertical excess of the maxillary bone. At our practice, we assess the cause carefully before recommending treatment — because neurotoxin is only the right answer when the etiology is muscular. For patients whose gummy smile is driven by gingival or skeletal factors, we'll point you toward the appropriate specialist.
How does neurotoxin correct a gummy smile?
A small, precisely placed dose of neurotoxin into the levator labii superioris alaeque nasi muscle limits how far the upper lip elevates during smiling. The result is a reduction in gum exposure that brings the smile into a more proportionate balance without changing the lip's appearance at rest. At our practice, this is one of the most technique-sensitive injections we perform — the muscle is in close proximity to those controlling lip movement and smile shape, and conservative dosing with precise placement is essential to achieving a natural result. Dr. Martin's familiarity with oral and perioral anatomy is a real advantage here.
Will the treatment look natural, or will it affect my smile?
When done correctly, the result is a more proportionate smile — not an altered one. The goal is to reduce excessive gum exposure while preserving the full range of smile expression. Overdosing is the primary risk to a natural outcome, which is why we approach this treatment conservatively, particularly for first-time patients. Results appear within five to seven days, and at our practice, we schedule a follow-up at two weeks to assess the outcome and make any minor adjustments if needed. Starting conservatively and refining from there is always preferable to starting too aggressively.
How long do results last?
Results from a gummy smile neurotoxin treatment typically last three to four months — similar to other neurotoxin treatments. Repeat treatment at that interval maintains the result. Many patients find the treatment predictable and consistent from session to session once the right dose has been established. At our practice, we document your response after each session so that retreatment can be optimized based on what's worked best for you personally, rather than starting from scratch each time.
Begin with a
comprehensive evaluation.
Every patient relationship begins with a thorough assessment and an open conversation. We take the time to understand your history, concerns, and long-term goals before recommending treatment. Complete the form below and one of our team members will reach out to you soon.
Before
and after.
Explore real patient transformations made possible through Dr. Gregory Martin’s comprehensive, all-in-one approach to care. Results vary by individual. These images are provided for educational purposes and do not guarantee specific outcomes.
