By LIV Clinic · Medically reviewed by Dr. Narathai Vichienkalayarut, M.D. · Published September 30, 2026

A few units in exactly the right muscle can change how your whole smile reads.

What is the best treatment for a gummy smile? For most people, a few units of Botox placed in the muscles that lift the upper lip is the simplest and most effective option — though it only works when excessive gum show is caused by muscle pull, not by gum or jaw structure.

What a gummy smile is

Excessive gum show

A gummy smile means a noticeable band of gum is visible above the upper teeth when smiling. It is common and entirely normal — treatment is purely a personal preference.

Three possible causes

The upper lip may be lifted too strongly by muscle, the gum tissue may cover more of the teeth, or the jaw may be positioned differently — and only the first responds to Botox.

How Botox helps

Relaxing the lift

The Cleveland Clinic describes botulinum toxin relaxing targeted muscles. Placed in the muscles that elevate the upper lip, it reduces how far the lip rises.

Very small doses

This is a precision treatment using only a few units, because the margin between a natural result and an odd-looking smile is small.

What to expect

A guide only; dosing is individual and confirmed at consultation.

Why injector experience matters here

A small margin for error

Too much product, or placement slightly off, can affect how you smile or create asymmetry — which is why this should be doctor-led.

Start conservatively

Because Botox cannot be reversed, a measured first dose with a two-week review is the sensible approach for this area in particular.

When Botox is not the answer

Other causes need different treatment:

• Excess gum tissue — a dental or periodontal assessment
• Jaw position or tooth length — orthodontic or surgical options
• A very short upper lip — may respond only partially
• Combined causes — may need a combined approach

Combining with a lip flip

A related technique

A Botox lip flip relaxes the upper lip so it rolls slightly outward, which can complement gummy smile treatment.

Planned together

Both use small doses in the same region, so they should be planned as one treatment rather than added separately.

Realistic expectations

Reduced, not eliminated

The aim is less gum show and a more balanced smile, not changing your smile entirely.

It is temporary

Results last about three to four months, so maintenance is needed if you want to keep the effect.

Preparing for and recovering from treatment

Preparation and aftercare:

1. Have a consultation to identify whether muscle pull is the cause.
2. Avoid alcohol and blood-thinning supplements for 24–48 hours before, where appropriate.
3. Arrive with clean, make-up-free skin.
4. Stay upright and avoid rubbing the area for the first few hours.
5. Avoid saunas, heat and heavy exercise for the first day.
6. Review at about two weeks before considering any adjustment.

Gummy smile treatment at LIV Clinic Koh Samui

At LIV Clinic, Dr. Narathai assesses the cause before treating, using conservative Botox dosing for a natural result. Book a consultation.

Frequently asked questions

Safety and consultation

Gummy smile Botox is a medical procedure and, like any injectable treatment, carries some risk — common temporary effects can include redness, swelling, bruising or tenderness, and less common reactions are possible. Results vary from person to person, and no specific outcome can be promised. This article is general information, not medical advice.

At LIV Clinic, every treatment begins with an in-person assessment by Dr. Narathai Vichienkalayarut, M.D., who reviews your skin, medical history and goals before recommending a personalized plan. Book a consultation to find out whether this treatment suits you.