How To Get Rid of a Gummy Smile

Reviewed by Dr. Kerri Font, DDS

Reading time: four minutes.

Are you self-conscious of your smile? Do you cover your mouth when you smile or laugh? You’re not alone. Many people feel self-conscious because they have a  “gummy smile”. The good news is that there are effective treatment options available to help fix this! .

In this blog, we will talk about what a gummy smile is, why some people have it, and the various treatments available.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaway

There are various treatments for a gummy smile, including laser gum removal to precisely reshape and reduce excess gum tissue, crown lengthening to expose more of the tooth structure, and Botox injections to temporarily relax hyperactive lip muscles.

What is a Gummy Smile?

A gummy smile (excessive gingival display), is a condition where too much gum tissue is visible above the upper teeth when you smile. Generally, if more than 2–3 millimeters of gum tissue is visible, it is considered a gummy smile.

Why Do Some People Have Gummy Smiles?

Several factors can contribute to this:

  • Excessive gum tissue: Some people naturally have more gum tissue than others.
  • Abnormal tooth eruption: Your teeth might not have erupted fully from the gums, making the gums appear larger.
  • Hyperactive lip muscles: The muscles that lift your upper lip might be overly active, revealing more of your gums.
  • Maxillary excess: The bone that supports your upper teeth (maxilla) might be longer than average.
  • Gingival hypertrophy: Certain medications or medical conditions can cause your gums to overgrow.

Effective Treatment Options for Gummy Smiles

There are several treatments available to address this. The ideal treatment for you will depend on the specific cause of your gummy smile. 

Laser Gum Contouring (Gingivectomy)

Laser gum contouring is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that uses a dental laser to remove excess gum tissue and reshape your gum line. This is often the most effective treatment for gummy smiles caused by excess gum tissue.

Advantages of Laser Gum Contouring

  • Precision: Lasers allow for precise removal of gum tissue, ensuring a natural-looking result.
  • Minimal bleeding: Lasers cauterize blood vessels as they cut, minimizing bleeding and swelling.
  • Faster healing: Laser gum contouring typically results in faster healing times compared to traditional surgery.
  • Less discomfort: Patients often experience less discomfort during and after the procedure.
  • Lifetime-long results: When the gingivectomy is performed by a skilled surgeon the results are permanent.

Crown Lengthening

Crown lengthening is another surgical procedure that involves removing excess gum tissue and sometimes bone to expose more of your natural teeth. This treatment is often recommended when your teeth appear short due to excessive gum tissue.

Orthodontic Treatment

If your gummy smile is caused by orthodontic issues like a bad bite or abnormal tooth eruption, orthodontic treatment with braces or clear aligners can help move your teeth into the correct position, reducing the gummy appearance.

Orthognathic Surgery

In severe cases where the jawbone is the cause of the gummy smile, orthognathic surgery may be recommended. This procedure involves repositioning the jaw to improve facial balance and reduce the gummy appearance.

Botox® Injections

For gummy smiles caused by hyperactive lip muscles, Botox® injections can be a temporary solution. Botox relaxes the muscles, preventing them from lifting your lip too high and revealing excess gum tissue.

Root Planing and Scaling

If inflammation or gum disease is contributing to your gummy smile, a deep cleaning procedure like root planing and scaling can help. This treatment removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline, reducing inflammation and potentially improving the appearance of your gums.

Benefits of Treatments

Treating a gummy smile isn’t just about aesthetics; it can have a profound impact on your overall well-being. Here are some of the benefits you can experience:

  • Boosted confidence: Feeling good about your smile can do wonders for your self-esteem. You’ll be more likely to smile freely and genuinely, radiating confidence in social and professional settings.
  • Improved facial aesthetics: A balanced smile where the right amount of gum tissue is visible can create a more harmonious and attractive facial appearance.
  • Improved oral health: Some treatments, like root planing and scaling, directly address gum disease, leading to healthier gums and teeth.

Your Perfect Smile With Highland Ranch Periodontist

At Highland Ranch Periodontist, we specialize in periodontal treatments, including gingivoplasty and gingivectomy. Our team of experienced professionals will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan to achieve your best smile.

If you are searching for a “periodontist in Highlands Ranch, CO” or “laser gum surgery near me” consult with Dr. Kerri Font, DDS, or Dr. Mike Norouzinia, DDS, to explore your options. Call (303) 683-1144 to book an appointment or complete our online inquiry form.

Categories: Periodontics