What is a Gummy Smile?

Before and after Smile design dental procedure photos. Selective soft focus.

Sometimes when a person’s teeth appear to be too short, they have what is known as a “gummy smile.” Many people think that a gummy smile results from having been born with teeth that are too short. However, it is not that the teeth are too short but that they are being hidden by excess bone and gum tissue.

Thanks to advances in dentistry, this condition can be handled with a minimally invasive procedure known as gum reshaping or gum recontouring. Dr. Ovadia and Dr. Tanur are experts at fixing gummy smiles.

Why Fix a Gummy Smile?
People with gummy smiles are often too embarrassed to smile because they are self-conscious about the appearance of their teeth. A gummy smile is not only a cosmetic issue, but it also has health implications. When excess gum tissue covers the teeth, it can make teeth harder to treat if a tooth develops a cavity or becomes fractured.

Gentle and Effective Gum Recontouring
Our doctors use a dental laser or a radiosurgery device to perform gum recontouring. These instruments are gentler and they promote faster healing when compared to traditional surgical instruments.

First, the crowns of the teeth are exposed so that the teeth appear normal in size. The doctor then recontours the gum line to correct its height, width and shape around the tooth. Once the procedure is done, your smile will look completely natural and aesthetic—and the results are permanent.

To make an appointment, call 214-377-0855 or request an appointment online.