If too much gum shows when you smile, dentists may describe this as a “gummy smile” or excessive gingival display.
It can happen for different reasons, including excess gum tissue, the position or size of the teeth, the way the upper lip moves, or the relationship between the teeth and jaw.
Some people also have teeth that appear unusually short because part of the natural tooth is covered by gum tissue.
Treatment therefore depends on the actual cause rather than simply removing gum tissue.
When excess gum tissue is responsible, gum contouring or crown-lengthening procedures may help expose more of the natural tooth and create a more balanced gum line.
For patients considering broader smile improvements, treatments such as Smile Design or other Cosmetic Dentistryoptions may also be considered depending on the cause and the patient’s goals.
In other cases, orthodontic treatment or care involving another dental specialist may be more appropriate.
Before cosmetic treatment, the teeth and gums should be examined to make sure they are healthy and to determine which structures are contributing to the appearance of the smile.
A personalised assessment helps determine whether treatment is necessary and which approach can improve the smile while maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
Dr. Ahmed Nassiri provides cosmetic and prosthodontic consultations in Dubai for patients who would like to understand the options available for improving their smile. You can also explore his dental services or book an appointment.
Find clear answers to common questions about how the treatment works, who it may be suitable for, what to expect, and how to care for your results.
We always take care of your smile
A gummy smile can have several causes. It may be related to excess gum tissue, teeth that appear short because they are partly covered by the gums, the way the upper lip moves, or the position of the teeth and jaw. Because the cause can differ from person to person, an examination is important before choosing treatment.
Yes. Veneers are not automatically needed for a gummy smile. If excess gum tissue is the main cause, treatments such as gum contouring or crown lengthening may expose more of the natural tooth and improve the balance between the teeth and gums. Other causes may require orthodontic or specialist treatment instead.
In many cases, properly planned gum contouring can provide long-lasting results. However, the dentist must assess the gum and bone levels around the teeth first. If the underlying bone position is not considered when necessary, the gum tissue may move back toward its previous position.
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