Gummy smile treatment reshapes excess gum tissue to reveal more of your natural teeth. It restores balance between the teeth and gums, improves aesthetics, and supports long-term oral health.
What Is a Gummy Smile?
A gummy smile occurs when excessive gum tissue, more than 3-4mm, is visible above the upper teeth. This can result from several factors, including:
- Excess gum tissue covering part of the tooth surface
- Short teeth caused by delayed tooth eruption or wear
- Hyperactive muscles that lift the upper lip too high when smiling
- Abnormal jaw development or bone height
- Genetics that predispose individuals to excessive gum display
- Certain medications can cause gum tissue to thicken or overgrow
A gummy smile isn’t harmful, but it can affect the overall balance of your smile. Our periodontists evaluate the cause and recommend a treatment that best fits your goals.
Treatment Options for Gummy Smiles
We offer several procedures to correct a gummy smile. Each treatment is designed to improve the gum-to-tooth ratio and enhance the overall appearance of your smile.
Gingivectomy
A gingivectomy is used to reshape the gumline by removing a small amount of excess tissue. The procedure uncovers more of each tooth’s surface, creating a fuller, more proportionate smile. With laser technology, treatment is precise, comfortable, and promotes quick healing.
Crown Lengthening
When both gum and bone tissue need adjustment, crown lengthening may be recommended. This procedure exposes more of the tooth surface and can also be performed to prepare for restorative procedures, such as crown fabrication. Crown lengthening creates the ideal foundation for both function and aesthetics.
Gingivoplasty
Gingivoplasty reshapes the natural contours of the gums to create a smooth, even appearance around each tooth. It is often performed after excess tissue is removed to refine the gumline and enhance symmetry. The procedure improves both aesthetics and the ease of cleaning, supporting healthier gums and a more balanced smile.
Gummy Smile Treatment Comparison
The table below outlines how these procedures compare in purpose, technique, and overall benefits.
| Treatment | Ideal Candidate | Procedure Overview | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gingivectomy | Patients with excess gum tissue covering part of the tooth surface | Removes and reshapes soft tissue using laser or gentle surgical methods | Reveals more tooth structure, improves smile balance |
| Crown Lengthening | Patients needing both gum and bone reshaping or preparing for restorations | Adjusts gum and bone levels to expose more of the tooth | Creates an ideal gum-to-tooth ratio, supports restorations |
| Gingivoplasty | Patients who need contouring to refine gum shape after tissue removal | Smooths and sculpts the gums for a natural, even appearance | Refines gumline shape, improves symmetry, supports oral hygiene |
What to Expect During Treatment
Your comfort and safety are our top priorities. Most procedures are performed using local anesthesia, and sedation options are available if needed. Our periodontists use advanced laser technology and precise microsurgical techniques to minimize discomfort and promote faster healing.
Depending on your treatment plan, you may see immediate improvements, with final results becoming more refined as healing progresses.
Benefits of Gummy Smile Treatment
Correcting a gummy smile can dramatically enhance both appearance and confidence. Key benefits include:
- A more balanced and proportional smile
- Improved gum-to-tooth ratio
- Enhanced oral hygiene and easier cleaning
- Long-lasting aesthetic and functional results
- Restored confidence when smiling, speaking, or laughing
Why Patients Choose Periodontal Associates
For nearly 50 years, Periodontal Associates has been the trusted name in advanced gum and implant care across Centennial and Aurora, CO. Our board-certified periodontal specialists specialize in creating healthy, natural-looking smiles using the latest techniques in periodontal plastic surgery.
Patients choose us because we:
- Offer customized treatment plans for each smile
- Use laser technology for precision and comfort
- Provide comprehensive care for both oral health and aesthetics
- Collaborate closely with restorative dentists for optimal results
Insurance and Financing
Periodontal Associates accepts most major dental insurance plans and will verify your benefits before your treatment to minimize surprises. Our team provides estimates in advance and helps you understand your coverage.
For any costs not covered by insurance, we offer financing options through CareCredit and Alpheon, making it easier to move forward with the treatment you need.
Learn MoreSchedule a Consultation
Discover how small adjustments can make a big difference in the appearance or your smile. To book an appointment at our Centennial location, call (303) 795-5700. For our Aurora location, call (303) 755-4500.
FAQs
What causes a gummy smile?
A gummy smile is usually caused by the way the teeth, gums, and upper lip develop and move together. In some people, the gums cover more of the teeth or the upper lip rises higher when smiling, making the gums more noticeable.
Is gummy smile treatment painful?
Procedures are performed under local anesthesia, and most patients experience only mild tenderness afterward, which resolves quickly.
How long does recovery take?
Recovery depends on the treatment performed. Most patients return to normal activities within a few days, with complete healing in one to two weeks.
Can a gummy smile be corrected without surgery?
In some cases, minor gum reshaping or laser contouring can achieve excellent results without surgical intervention.
Where can I get gummy smile treatment near me?
Periodontal Associates proudly serves patients across the Denver area. Our Aurora office is located at 2900 South Peoria Street, Building D, Aurora, CO 80014, and our Centennial office is at 2101 E. Arapahoe Rd., Suite 101, Centennial, CO 80122. Both of our locations offer state-of-the-art technology and compassionate care for all your periodontal and aesthetic needs.
