Gummy Smile Correction

Understanding the Gummy Smile

A gummy smile (excess gingival display) occurs when too much gum tissue shows relative to tooth length. This can result from gum overgrowth, short clinical crowns, hyperactive lip muscle, or disproportionate upper jaw growth. Correcting it often enhances the overall balance and attractiveness of the smile.

Diagnostic Evaluation

We carefully analyze your gum line, lip mobility, tooth length, and facial proportions. Sometimes digital imaging or models help us plan how much tissue to remove. We also check gum health to ensure tissue is stable before contouring.

Technique & Procedure

Depending on the case, we may use soft-tissue lasers or micro surgical techniques to contour gum tissue, exposing more of the tooth’s crown. In more complex cases, we may combine gum surgery with crown lengthening or orthodontic adjustments. The procedure is done under local anesthesia with precision.

Recovery & Aftercare

Post-procedure, mild swelling, tenderness, or sensitivity is normal—usually subsides within a few days. We provide instructions on gentle cleaning, antimicrobial rinses, and diet modifications. Follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor healing.

Why It Matters

Gum contouring can dramatically change how your smile looks. By exposing more of the natural tooth structure, we improve proportion, symmetry, and the visual length of teeth. This enhances your confidence while maintaining periodontal health.

Ideal Candidates

Ideal patients have good overall gum health and stable bite. If excessive display is due to skeletal factors, we may recommend adjunctive orthodontics or periodontal surgery. In our consultation, we determine whether gum correction alone will deliver your desired result or whether combined treatments are necessary.