How to Fix a Gummy Smile – Treatments That Balance Your Smile
Do you feel like too much of your gum shows when you smile? A gummy smile is a common cosmetic concern, and for many patients, it can affect self-confidence. The good news is that there are several effective, minimally invasive treatments available to create a more balanced, natural looking smile.
At Islington Smiles, our award-winning dental team specialises in smile makeovers that enhance both aesthetics and function. Whether your gummy smile is caused by excess gum tissue, short teeth, or overactive lip muscles, we offer personalised treatment plans to help you achieve a smile you’ll love.
In this blog, we’ll explain what causes a gummy smile, explore treatment options, and explain how we help patients transform their smiles.
What Is a Gummy Smile?
A “gummy smile” refers to the appearance of excessive gum tissue above the upper teeth when smiling. While there’s no strict definition, dental professionals generally consider it gummy if more than 3-4mm of gum shows.
Although a gummy smile isn’t harmful, it can make some people feel self-conscious. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers several options to address it, most of them minimally invasive.
What Causes a Gummy Smile?
Before recommending treatment, it’s important to identify the cause. Common reasons include:
1. Excess Gum Tissue
Some people naturally have more gum tissue covering their teeth, making teeth appear shorter than they really are.
2. Hyperactive Upper Lip Muscles
If your upper lip lifts too high when you smile, more gum tissue is exposed. This is a common cause of gummy smiles.
3. Teeth That Appear Short
Your teeth may have normal length but look short due to wear, genetics, or the way gums sit over them.
4. Jaw Position
In some cases, an overdeveloped upper jaw can affect how gums and teeth are displayed when smiling.
Understanding the cause helps us decide on the best treatment plan.
Treatment Options for a Gummy Smile
At Islington Smiles, we offer a range of treatments depending on the severity and underlying cause.
1. Botox for Gummy Smiles
For gummy smiles caused by overactive upper lip muscles, Botox is a quick, effective option.
- How it works: Botox is injected into the upper lip muscles, temporarily relaxing them to prevent excessive lifting.
- Treatment time: 10-15 minutes.
- Results: Noticeable within a week.
- Longevity: Effects last 3-4 months.
You can learn more about our facial aesthetic treatments here.
2. Gum Contouring (Gingivectomy)
If excess gum tissue is the cause, we may recommend gum contouring:
- How it works: Using precision tools, we gently reshape the gumline to expose more of the tooth’s surface.
- Treatment time: Usually completed in one appointment.
- Results: Immediate, long-lasting improvement.
Gum contouring can also be combined with veneers or composite bonding for a complete smile transformation.
3. Orthodontic Treatments (Invisalign)
Sometimes a gummy smile is linked to the position of your teeth or bite. In these cases, orthodontic treatments like Invisalign can help:
- Invisalign gently moves your teeth into an ideal position.
- This can reduce gum exposure and improve the overall balance of your smile.
- Treatments are discreet, removable, and highly effective.
If your teeth naturally appear short, veneers or bonding can lengthen their visible surface, balancing the ratio between teeth and gums.
5. Surgical Options (For Complex Cases)
In rare cases where jaw structure is the primary cause, orthognathic surgery may be considered. At Islington Smiles, we work with trusted specialists to ensure patients receive the highest standard of care.
At Islington Smiles, no two smiles are the same. We start with a comprehensive consultation, including:
- A detailed assessment of your teeth, gums, and jaw
- High-resolution digital scans and photos
- A discussion about your aesthetic goals
From there, we design a bespoke treatment plan tailored to your needs and lifestyle.
Aftercare and Maintaining Your Results
To maintain your new smile, we recommend:
- Visiting our dental hygienist every six months
- Following a consistent oral hygiene routine
- Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle brushing technique
- Avoiding habits like nail biting or pen chewing that may affect results
The Link Between Gum Health and Confidence
Addressing a gummy smile isn’t just about appearance, it can also improve oral health. Studies show that healthy gum proportions are easier to clean and maintain, reducing the risk of gum disease and decay (NHS: Gum Disease).
Why Choose Islington Smiles?
Our treatments are led by Dr Marisa Monteiro, an award-winning dentist known for her calm, patient-focused approach. With expertise across cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, and facial aesthetics, our team offers:
- Advanced, minimally invasive treatments
- A personalised, tailored experience
- Exceptional patient care from consultation to aftercare
If you’ve been hiding your smile, now’s the time to make a change.
Call us on 020 3833 2695
Or book a consultation online.
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