A fantastic smile is all about harmony—your teeth, lips, and gums all getting along together. But if you see too much gum when you smile, you might feel a little embarrassed. This is a gummy smile, and while it’s not harmful, it can disrupt your confidence. The good news is that you don’t have to live with it forever.
From fast, non-surgical procedures to lengthy surgical procedures, there are several ways to get rid of a gummy smile.
Non-Surgical Procedures to Fix a Gummy Smile
If you want a non-surgical procedure, these can provide a more even smile with little work.
Laser Gum Contouring
If your gums are too far forward over your teeth, laser contouring will re-shape them for a more even appearance. Here’s what this procedure involves:
- With a very precise dental laser to remove excess gum tissue.
- Making your smile instantly more symmetrical.
- Healing in a few days with barely any pain.
Braces or Clear Aligners
Sometimes, the appearance of your teeth in your mouth can be responsible for a gummy smile. When your upper front teeth protrude over your lower front teeth excessively, they jut out and cause your gums to show more. Orthodontic treatments like braces or clear aligners can fix this by:
- Moving your teeth to their normal position.
- Reducing the show of gum tissue when you smile.
- To improve overall bite alignment for a more harmonious face.
Botox Injections
For patients with a gummy smile caused by an overactive upper lip, Botox is an easy and quick fix. This minor procedure involves injecting tiny doses of Botox into muscles that control lip activity and thus prevent them from rising so high while smiling.
- Results appear in a few days and can last several months.
- No downtime—just a quick visit to your provider.
- If you’re considering Botox Therapy in Denver, this can be an excellent non-surgical option to achieve a more balanced smile without making permanent changes.
Botox is perfect for those looking for a temporary fix or wanting to try out a subtle enhancement before considering other treatments.
Surgical Solutions for a Permanent Fix
If you want a permanent result, surgical procedures can have dramatic and long-lasting results.
Lip Repositioning Surgery
It limits how high your upper lip goes when you smile so that you will not see any gum. It involves:
- Repositioning the muscle that controls lip movement.
- Placing your upper lip in a more natural, lower position.
- Rapid recovery with little pain.
Crown Lengthening
For those who have naturally short teeth hidden by too much gum tissue, crown lengthening is a great option. This treatment:
- Gently remove excess gum tissue and occasionally a small portion of bone.
- Exposes more of the natural tooth structure.
- Provides a more balanced smile that looks natural and symmetrical.
Orthognathic Surgery (Jaw Surgery)
In more severe instances where the top jaw is too far forward, jaw surgery is done. This surgery:
- Transposes the top jaw back to reduce gum visibility.
- Realigns bite to offer more facial balance.
- Produces permanent, dramatic results.
You don’t have to let a gummy smile hold you back. With treatment as easy as a Botox injection or as involved as surgery, you can have a smile that makes you feel more confident. To find the right treatment, see a professional who can point you toward the solution that best meets your needs. If you want a quick fix or a permanent solution, your dream smile is waiting.
