How can I show more of my upper teeth when I smile? (Photos)

Question

Hi! I’ve noticed that when I smile, my upper lip doesn’t lift much, so very little of my upper teeth are visible. My teeth and gums are normal, but my smile looks “closed” even when I’m trying to smile fully. I’ve read that some people get a lip lift or other procedures (like lip filler adjustments, Botox, or smile training) to make more of their upper teeth show. Could a subnasal lip lift or another procedure help increase tooth show when smiling? How do I know if I’m a good candidate? Are there non-surgical options worth trying first? I’m attaching photos showing my relaxed face and smile for reference.

Jeffrey H. Spiegel, MD · Answer

We do a lot of lip lifts. They are done when you want to have a shorter lip, especially at rest. The best way to tell the value is to look at how many teeth show with your mouth slightly open but at rest (like you are sleeping).  This is a quick office procedure.

How can I show more of my upper teeth when I smile? (Photos)

Answers (1)