How Can I Fix My Gummy Smile?

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Some people have gum tissue that extends further down the crowns of their teeth than normal—often referred to as a “gummy smile.” Patients with this excess tissue may feel shy or embarrassed to smile due to their teeth appearing abnormally short. Cosmetic crown lengthening, also known as an aesthetic gum lift or gum recontouring, is a procedure designed to remove excess gum tissue from the teeth, revealing a more balanced and symmetrical smile.

What Causes a Gummy Smile?

A gummy smile can develop for several reasons, and identifying the underlying cause is an important first step in determining the right treatment. In many cases, excess gum tissue covers more of the tooth than it should, making otherwise healthy teeth appear short or uneven. Other contributing factors may include altered tooth eruption, genetics, or changes in the gum line over time.

During a consultation, Dr. Daniel Lauer will evaluate your gums, teeth, and overall oral structure to determine whether cosmetic crown lengthening is the most appropriate solution for improving your smile.

How Cosmetic Crown Lengthening Improves Your Smile

Cosmetic crown lengthening focuses on reshaping the gum line to expose more of the natural tooth structure. By carefully removing excess tissue, the teeth appear longer and more proportionate, creating a cleaner, more aesthetically pleasing smile.

As a board-certified periodontist experienced in gum treatments, Dr. Lauer performs laser gum recontouring utilizing Waterlase MD™ technology to provide a minimally invasive procedure for a virtually pain-free experience. This innovative laser can efficiently and precisely reshape the gum line with beautiful results. In addition, the process typically produces minimal discomfort, and patients can expect little to no downtime after their procedure.

Because the Waterlase MD system is highly precise, surrounding healthy tissue is preserved, helping support faster healing and natural-looking results.

Is Crown Lengthening Only Cosmetic?

While crown lengthening is commonly performed to enhance smile aesthetics, it also plays an important role in restorative dentistry. Crown lengthening may be performed to prepare a tooth for a dental restoration such as a porcelain crown. Recontouring the gum line prior to a dental restoration procedure can enhance the fit of the restoration as well as improve the aesthetic results.

By exposing more of the tooth structure, crown lengthening allows restorations to sit properly and securely, which can improve both function and long-term durability.

What Does the Recovery from Gummy Smile Treatment Involve?

Recovery after laser gum recontouring is typically quick and comfortable. Most patients experience mild tenderness or sensitivity that resolves within a few days. Because the laser minimizes trauma to the gums, bleeding and swelling are usually minimal, and many patients return to their normal routines shortly after treatment.

Dr. Lauer will provide detailed aftercare instructions to promote healing and help maintain your results.

Am I a Candidate for Gummy Smile Treatment?

If you feel self-conscious about excess gum tissue or notice that your teeth appear short when you smile, cosmetic crown lengthening may be an excellent option. Ideal candidates are generally in good oral health and free of active gum infection. A personalized evaluation will help determine the best approach for your unique needs.

If you would like more information about crown lengthening, please contact us today to schedule an appointment.