Have you ever felt a little shy about smiling wide because your gums show more than your teeth? You’re not alone. A gummy smile is something many people notice in themselves—and the good news is, it’s totally treatable.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through what causes a gummy smile, the different ways it can be treated, and how to choose the right dentist to help you feel confident again. Whether you’re just curious or ready to take the next step, this guide has got you covered.
What Is a Gummy Smile?
A gummy smile, also known as excessive gingival display, is when more of your gums show than you’d like when you smile. For some people, it’s just a few extra millimeters; for others, it might be more noticeable.
Usually, if more than 3 to 4 millimeters of gum is visible above the top teeth while smiling, it’s considered a gummy smile. But remember—what matters most is how you feel about it. If it bothers you, there are ways to fix it.
What Causes a Gummy Smile?
There are a few reasons why someone might have a gummy smile, and most of them are related to how your teeth, gums, and upper lip grow or move.
1. Genetics and Jaw Growth
Sometimes it’s simply in your DNA. You may have inherited a short upper lip, a small upper jaw, or more gum tissue than average.
2. Overactive Upper Lip Muscles
If your upper lip lifts too high when you smile, more of your gums can show. This is often due to muscle movement, not the shape of your teeth or gums.
3. Short or Worn Teeth
If your teeth are naturally shorter or have worn down over time, your gums may appear more prominent.
4. Extra Gum Tissue
Sometimes, your teeth are the right length, but they’re covered by too much gum. This can be corrected by reshaping the gum line.
How to Fix a Gummy Smile: Treatment Options
Once you know what’s causing your gummy smile, the next step is choosing the right treatment. Here are the most common options:
Gum Contouring (Gingivectomy)
This involves reshaping the gum line so your teeth appear longer and your smile more even. It’s a quick procedure that changes the way your gums frame your teeth.
Braces or Aligners
If the position of your teeth or jaws is causing the gummy appearance, orthodontic treatment can help move things into better alignment over time.
Botox Injections
For those with overactive lip muscles, Botox can be used to relax the muscles, reducing how high the lip moves when you smile. This option is temporary and usually lasts a few months.
Dental Veneers or Crowns
These can be used to lengthen the look of your teeth, helping balance the tooth-to-gum ratio.
Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery)
In more serious cases where the upper jaw is the main issue, a surgical procedure can reposition it to create a more balanced smile. This option is usually for people with both functional and cosmetic concerns.
What to Expect During Gummy Smile Treatment
Not sure what the process looks like? Here’s a general idea:
Step 1: Consultation – Your dentist will examine your teeth, gums, and lip movement. Photos and X-rays may be taken.
Step 2: Diagnosis – You’ll find out what’s causing your gummy smile.
Step 3: Treatment Plan – Based on the cause, your dentist will suggest one or more options.
Step 4: The Procedure – Most procedures are done in the clinic and don’t require much downtime.
Step 5: Follow-up – You may need a check-up or additional visits depending on the treatment.
Choosing the Right Dentist for Gummy Smile Correction
Fixing a gummy smile takes both skill and experience. When looking for a dentist, consider:
- Their experience with smile design and cosmetic dental treatments
- Before-and-after photos of previous cases
- Patient reviews and testimonials
- How clearly they explain your options
You want someone who listens, explains things well, and makes you feel at ease.
Looking for Gummy Smile Treatment in Porwal Road, Pune?
If you’re in Pune and looking to improve your smile, you can visit Nextcare Dental Clinic on Porwal Road, led by Dr. Mahesh Mali.
Dr. Mali has helped many people achieve more confident smiles with safe and effective gum correction techniques. The clinic is known for its calm environment and friendly team—ideal if you’re nervous about dental visits. Whether you’re interested in gum contouring or simply want to explore your options, a quick visit could be your first step toward a new smile.
📞 To book an appointment, reach out to Nextcare Dental Clinic, Porwal Road.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is gummy smile correction permanent?
Some treatments, like gum contouring or surgery, offer permanent results. Botox is temporary and may need to be repeated every few months.
2. Can braces fix a gummy smile?
Yes, if your gummy smile is caused by tooth or jaw alignment, orthodontic treatment can help reposition things for a better balance.
3. How much does gummy smile treatment cost in Pune?
It depends on the treatment. Botox can start around ₹5,000–₹10,000 per session, while gum contouring might cost between ₹10,000–₹30,000. Surgical options will be higher.
Ready to Smile with Confidence?
If a gummy smile is something you’ve been thinking about, now’s the time to take that first step. You deserve to feel great every time you smile.
👉 Book a consultation at Nextcare Dental Clinic, Porwal Road with Dr. Mahesh Mali today and explore your treatment options in a relaxed, supportive setting.
