Do you ever feel like your gums show more than you’d like when you smile? A “gummy smile” is a common concern, and the good news is that there are safe, effective treatments to create a more balanced, confident smile. At Shine Dentistry, we offer both non-surgical and surgical gum contouring solutions, personalized to your needs.
What Causes a Gummy Smile?
Several factors can make gums appear more prominent:
- Excess gum tissue covering the teeth
- Teeth that appear short or uneven in proportion
- A hyperactive upper lip that rises high when you smile
- Jaw positioning and development
Understanding the cause is the first step to choosing the right treatment.
Non-Surgical Treatments for a Gummy Smile
Not every gummy smile needs surgery. Many patients achieve excellent results with minimally invasive, non-surgical treatments:
- Botox for a Gummy Smile
A popular option is using a small amount of Botox® to relax the upper lip. By softening the muscle movement, the upper lip doesn’t rise as high, which means less gum tissue is exposed when you smile.
- Quick and simple: The treatment takes only a few minutes.
- Minimal dosage: Just a few units of Botox are typically used, customized to your smile.
- Customized placement: The exact injection sites vary depending on how your lip moves.
- Temporary, but repeatable: Results last 3–4 months and can be maintained with touch-ups.
Dr. Johnston has had great success using Botox for gummy smiles, helping patients achieve a natural, balanced smile without changing the teeth or gums themselves.
- Cosmetic Dental Treatments
In some cases, pairing Botox with cosmetic treatments like veneers or bonding can help improve tooth proportion for an even more harmonious look.
Surgical Gum Contouring Options
For patients who want a more permanent solution or when the gums themselves are the primary cause, we also offer surgical gum contouring.
- Laser gum reshaping: Removes and sculpts excess gum tissue with precision.
- Crown lengthening: Exposes more of the natural tooth for improved proportions.
Our board-certified periodontist, Dr. Brendon Ursomanno, is highly experienced in surgical gum contouring procedures and can provide expert, long-lasting solutions when needed.
Which Treatment is Right for You?
Every smile is unique. Some patients achieve their goals with just a few units of Botox, while others may benefit from surgical gum reshaping or a combination approach. During your consultation, Dr. Johnston will evaluate your smile, discuss your concerns, and explain all available options so you can make the best choice for your goals.