Cosmetic dentistry
Gummy Smile
When too much gum shows as you smile, your teeth look shorter and the smile appears out of balance. We choose the treatment according to the cause – which is why everything starts with an examination.
What is a Gummy Smile?
A “gummy smile” (gingival smile) is when a large area of gum shows above the upper teeth as you smile. It is not a disease, but it bothers many people. The most common causes are excessive gum tissue, short teeth, an irregular position of the teeth or jaw, and overactive upper-lip muscles – often in combination.
Possible methods
- Gingivectomy – precise removal and reshaping of excess gum tissue, when the teeth are “covered” by the gums.
- Orthodontic treatment – when the cause is the position of the teeth or jaw. See Orthodontics.
- Botox – reducing the activity of the muscles that lift the upper lip, in selected cases; the effect is temporary.
- Combined with restorative work – after the gums have been corrected, veneers or crowns can further harmonise the proportions of the teeth.
Course of treatment
- 01
Specialist consultation
An examination of your mouth, a conversation about what you would like to achieve and, if needed, an X-ray or 3D CBCT scan – all in the clinic, in one place. Based on this, you receive a treatment plan and a quote.
- 02
Analysis of the cause
Assessment of the gums, tooth length, jaw position and lip movement.
- 03
Plan and choice of method
We propose a method or a combination of methods, with the expected result.
- 04
Correction
The procedure is carried out – surgical methods under local anaesthetic.
- 05
Follow-up
A check of healing and any fine-tuning.
Questions & answers
Frequently asked questions
Is gum correction painful?
Surgical methods are carried out under local anaesthetic. After the procedure, the gums may be tender for a few days.
Is the result permanent?
It depends on the method: gingivectomy and orthodontic correction give a long-lasting result, while the effect of Botox is temporary.
Can a Gummy Smile correction be combined with a Hollywood Smile?
Yes – for many patients, the best result comes from correcting the gums first and then fitting veneers or crowns.
Related services
Cosmetic dentistry
Teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, aesthetic crowns and the Hollywood Smile.
Hollywood Smile
A planned smile makeover with all-ceramic crowns or veneers, shaped to suit your face.
Orthodontics
Fixed and removable braces, clear aligners from our own laboratory and retainers – for children and adults.
The first step
Book a specialist consultation.
Your appointment includes a free specialist examination of your mouth, a consultation with the dentist, a treatment plan and a quote for the treatments you need, tailored to your wishes and circumstances.