There are many reasons why people have a gummy smile, and it can be caused by various issues such as jaw development problems, tooth eruptions, and muscular issues. To get the best results, it’s important to identify the cause of your gummy smile and address its underlying issue first. 

However, you can use various methods to fix a gummy smile, and a good dental professional will give you the necessary information to choose the best one for you. Your dentist will then give you the necessary information to make an informed decision regarding the treatment options. There are surgical and non-surgical ways of having a gummy smile fixed; below is a breakdown of the various methods. 

Non-Surgical Methods 

Botox 

If you have a hyperactive upper lip and would like to avoid surgery, you can use a drug known as botulinum toxin. It will temporarily restrain the muscles in your upper lip from moving too much, which will cause your lip to remain low. It will also help cover your gums and improve the appearance of your smile. 

Although botulinum toxin can temporarily improve the appearance of your smile, it’s not a permanent solution. The treatment results will last for around three to six months, and you will either have to get it again or choose another method to get a better smile. 

Root Planing and Scaling 

Scaling and root planing are procedures that are usually used by dentists to remove plaque buildup on the teeth and can also help you get rid of a gummy smile. During the procedure, the dentist will remove the plaque from your teeth and then smooth them. After the procedure, your gum line will get changed to allow them to return to its original position. 

Veneers 

One of the main reasons people have a gummy smile is their teeth being too short or small. It could cause underlying issues such as jaw problems or an improper bite. The appearance of a distorted smile draws the eye’s attention to the gum line.  

If you have short teeth, then you may have inherited a genetic condition, or it is due to wear and tear. If you want to improve the appearance of your smile, then you can use dental implants or porcelain veneers. These are cosmetic dentistry procedures that allow you to create a customized smile.  

Surgical Methods 

Gingivectomy 

Gingivectomy is a type of surgical procedure that involves the removal of unwanted gum tissue. It can be performed on patients with mild to moderate gum tissue issues. Crown-lengthening surgery is also a common procedure for this type of tooth restoration. The recovery period following the procedure is usually one week. Here, tenderness and swelling during this time can be experienced. 

Laser Gum Contouring 

This procedure uses dental laser technology to remove the excess gum tissue. It’s considered to be more comfortable and precise than other procedures. The excess gum tissue is removed and reshaped to expose more teeth than your gum tissue. The process is usually performed using local anesthetics. Learn more about gum contouring and if it’s right for you.