What is the Best Way to Fix a Gummy Smile?

If you feel self-conscious about your smile because too much of your gums show when you laugh or talk, you’re not alone. This common dental concern is known as a gummy smile. At Canyon Ridge Dental Specialists, we understand how important it is to feel confident in your appearance and we’re here to offer solutions.

What Is a Gummy Smile?

A gummy smile, or excessive gingival display, occurs when a significant portion of the gums is visible above the upper teeth when smiling. While there is no strict clinical definition, a smile is typically considered "gummy" if more than 3-4 millimeters of gum tissue is exposed.

There are several reasons this might happen, including:

• Overactive upper lip muscles

• Excessive gum tissue

• Short or worn-down teeth

• Abnormal tooth eruption

• Jaw development issues

While a gummy smile isn’t usually a medical concern, it can significantly affect your self-esteem. Many patients find themselves covering their mouths when they laugh or avoiding smiling altogether. This emotional impact can influence social interactions and overall quality of life.

Fixing a Gummy Smile with Dental Crown Lengthening

One of the most effective ways to correct a gummy smile is through dental crown lengthening. This procedure is ideal for patients whose gummy smile is caused by excessive gum tissue or short-looking teeth.

Dental crown lengthening is a surgical procedure that reshapes the gum line and sometimes the underlying bone to expose more of the natural tooth structure. It can be done for cosmetic purposes or to prepare the tooth for a dental restoration like a crown.

Benefits of Crown Lengthening for Gummy Smiles

• Creates a more balanced, symmetrical smile

• Improves the appearance of short teeth

• Enhances overall facial aesthetics

• Provides a permanent solution with long-lasting results

The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, and healing takes a few weeks. Once fully healed, patients often report a dramatic improvement in both their smile and their self-confidence.

Your Perfect Smile Starts Here

You don’t have to settle for a smile that makes you feel self-conscious. With the right treatment, a gummy smile can be reshaped into a more balanced, attractive appearance. At Canyon Ridge Dental Specialists, our team is here to help you achieve a smile that reflects your confidence and personality.

Ready to fix your gummy smile? Schedule a consultation with Canyon Ridge Dental Specialists to see if dental crown lengthening is the right solution for you. Visit any of our four offices conveniently located in Desert Ridge, Carefree, or Central Phoenix, Phoenix or Scottsdale, Arizona. Please call (480) 538-8100 or (602) 840-3636 to book an appointment today.