If your smile reveals more gum than you’d like — known as a gummy smile — you’re not alone. It’s a common aesthetic concern that can affect confidence, especially in photos or during conversation. The good news? At Mesglo Aesthetic Clinic London, we offer a range of treatments to gently balance your smile without surgery.
From Botox injections to lip repositioning and laser treatments, today’s techniques are more refined, less invasive, and more personalised than ever. Here’s our expert comparison of the top 3 approaches to gummy smile correction in 2025, so you can make the choice that fits your face — and your lifestyle.
What Is a Gummy Smile?
A “gummy smile” typically refers to excessive gum show when smiling, usually more than 3–4mm above the upper teeth. It can be caused by:
🔹 Overactive upper lip muscles
🔹 Short or hypermobile upper lip
🔹 Excess gum tissue (gingival hypertrophy)
🔹 Small or worn teeth
🔹 Vertical maxillary excess (long upper jaw)
The best treatment depends on the cause — which is why a personalised consultation at Mesglo is the first step.
1. Botox for Gummy Smile Correction
How It Works:
Tiny doses of botulinum toxin are injected into the levator labii superioris alaeque nasi muscle — the one responsible for lifting the upper lip too high when you smile. Relaxing this muscle means the lip doesn’t rise as much, reducing gum show.
Pros:
✅ Quick and virtually painless (5-minute treatment)
✅ No downtime
✅ Results visible in 3–5 days
✅ Subtle, natural-looking effect
✅ Adjustable with follow-ups
Cons:
⏳ Temporary — lasts 3–4 months
🔄 Requires maintenance to sustain results
Best For:
- Overactive upper lip muscles
- First-time clients wanting to try a non-surgical solution
- Those looking for quick, subtle correction
2. Lip Repositioning (Surgical Option)
How It Works:
A minor surgical procedure that involves repositioning the upper lip to cover more of the gums when smiling. The procedure shortens the distance the lip can rise, often done under local anaesthesia.
Pros:
✅ Long-lasting to permanent results
✅ Effective for hypermobile lips or high lip lines
Cons:
❗ Surgical risks (swelling, bruising, scarring)
⏳ 1–2 weeks of downtime
💰 Higher cost than injectables
Best For:
- Moderate to severe gummy smile due to lip anatomy
- Patients wanting a one-time solution
- Those not suitable for Botox or laser
3. Laser Gum Contouring
How It Works:
A cosmetic dental treatment using a soft-tissue laser to remove excess gum tissue, revealing more tooth surface and creating a more proportional gum-to-tooth ratio.
Pros:
✅ Can dramatically improve smile aesthetics
✅ Immediate, visible results
✅ Performed in one session
Cons:
❗ Only works for excess gum tissue — not lip muscle-related cases
😷 Done by a cosmetic dentist or periodontist
💰 May be more expensive and not covered by insurance
Best For:
- Excess gum tissue (gingival hypertrophy)
- Uneven gum lines
- Those seeking a permanent dental aesthetic solution
Approach Comparison Table
| Approach | Type | Downtime | Longevity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Botox | Non-surgical | None | 3–4 months | Muscle-based gummy smile |
| Lip Repositioning | Surgical | 1–2 weeks | Long-term | Hypermobile lip / high lip line |
| Laser Contouring | Dental Laser | 1–3 days | Permanent | Excess gum tissue (not lip-related) |
Why Mesglo Clients Prefer the Botox Approach
While all three methods can work, Botox remains the most popular option in London in 2025 because it is:
🌿 Non-invasive — no incisions, no healing time
🕒 Quick — often done on your lunch break
💉 Precise and customisable
🔁 Reversible — perfect for those exploring aesthetic treatments for the first time
Many Mesglo clients combine their gummy smile correction with other subtle enhancements like lip definition, chin balancing, or a chemical brow lift for a full facial refresh.
Book Your Gummy Smile Consultation Today
Ready to feel more confident in your smile? Whether you’re looking for quick refinement or exploring longer-term options, we’ll help you find the right solution for your face.
📍 Mesglo Aesthetic Clinic London
Unit 4, 10 Portman Square, London W1H 6AZ
🌍 https://mesglolondon.co.uk/
📅 Book your consultation now and explore the best gummy smile treatment for you — discreet, balanced, and beautifully done.