By Dr. Keerthi Sudireddy
A gummy smile, where too much gum shows when you smile, is common and very treatable. The right fix depends on the cause.
Quick answer
A gummy smile is when an excess of gum is visible above the teeth when smiling. Causes include excess gum tissue, short-looking teeth, or an overactive lip. Treatments include gum contouring (reshaping the gumline), crown lengthening, and in some cases orthodontics. Gum contouring is quick and gives an immediate, natural result.
Common causes
- Excess or uneven gum tissue covering the teeth.
- Teeth that erupted only partway, looking short.
- An upper lip that lifts very high when smiling.
Treatment options
- Gum contouring - gently reshaping the gumline to reveal more tooth.
- Crown lengthening - adjusting gum and bone for balance.
- Orthodontics - where tooth position contributes.
Book a smile assessment at The Tooth Studio to see which option suits you. Often combined with a smile design.
Have a question about your smile?
Book a consultation with Dr. Keerthi Sudireddy, or get free guidance on WhatsApp.