Do You Have a Gummy Smile? Here's How to Fix It

Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you, and it's often a source of pride and confidence. However, if you’re among the 10% of adults with a gummy smile, you may feel hesitant to smile fully, or maybe you cover your mouth when you laugh.

Well, there’s good news: Dr. David Blaustein and the team here at Chelsea Dental Aesthetics in New York City can fix your gummy smile.

If you have a gummy smile, keep reading.

Do you have a gummy smile?

When you smile, it’s normal to see about 1-2 millimeters of gum tissue; more than that is considered excessive. When more gum tissue shows, it can make your teeth appear shorter or smaller than they are. 

Gummy smiles more commonly affect women and can be caused by several factors, including:

• Genetics
• Excessive gum tissue
• Having a short upper lip
• Having a hypermobile upper lip

Not sure what’s causing your gummy smile? Dr. Blaustein can examine your gums and pinpoint the cause. 

How to fix a gummy smile

Gum contouring — also known as gingival sculpting or laser gum reshaping — can correct a gummy smile caused by excessive gum tissue growth. This procedure uses gentle lasers and specialized tools to reshape your gumline.

Gum contouring removes excessive tissue and creates a more balanced appearance. 

How gum contouring works

If you’re ready to say goodbye to a gummy smile, here’s what you can expect from laser gum contouring.

Consultation

A consultation is your first step. During this visit, Dr. Blaustein evaluates your smile, discusses your aesthetic goals, and determines if gum contouring is right for you.

Preparation

On the day of the procedure, Dr. Blaustein applies a local anesthetic to numb the treatment area. You’re comfortably numb throughout the procedure.

Gum reshaping

Using a specialized laser or surgical tool, Dr. Blaustein carefully trims and reshapes the excess gum tissue. The laser technology is particularly beneficial as it minimizes bleeding, reduces discomfort, and promotes faster healing.

Bone contouring

Dr. Blaustein also contours the bones under your gums. That’s a crucial step because it means your gums won’t grow back — so you can enjoy your results for years.

What to expect after gum contouring

After the procedure, you might experience some minor discomfort and swelling, which you can manage with over-the-counter pain relievers and a soft-food diet for a few days. 

Most importantly, you can expect increased confidence, an aesthetically pleasing smile, and long-lasting results.

Make gum contouring a part of your smile makeover

Gummy smile correction is great on its own, but it can add even more pizzazz to a smile makeover. Gum contouring can complement other cosmetic services such as professional teeth whitening, orthodontic treatment with Invisalign® clear aligners, or cosmetic bonding.

Ready to learn more about gum contouring? Visit us here in Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood. Call our office or request your consultation online today.