Periodontal

Gummy Smile Treatment in Washington, DC & Bethesda, MD

Do you feel like your smile shows too much gum or that your teeth look small? If so, aesthetic crown lengthening might be the perfect solution for you. It’s a periodontal procedure that reshapes excess gum tissue and the underlying bone to expose more of your natural tooth structure. It’s used to treat a “gummy smile” and create a more balanced tooth-to-gum ratio. Aesthetic crown lengthening is a simple and effective way to balance your smile and boost your confidence.

Our skilled team is dedicated to helping you achieve the smile you desire. Contact our Washington, DC, or Bethesda office to schedule a consultation today!

Why Causes a Gummy Smile?

Several factors can contribute to excessive gum display, including:

Excess Gum Tissue (Gingival Overgrowth): Some individuals naturally have more gum coverage over their teeth.
Short or Worn Teeth: Your teeth may not be small, but they can appear short if they haven’t fully erupted or are partially covered by gum.
Hyperactive Upper Lip: The lip lifts too high when you smile, exposing more gum than average.
Genetics: A gummy smile often runs in families and may be inherited.
Jaw Structure: An upper jaw that extends too far downward can result in a gummy smile appearance.
Orthodontic Issues: Certain bite problems may contribute to excessive gingival display.

Gummy Smile Treatment Options

1 Gingivectomy

(Gum Contouring)

If excess gum tissue is the only issue, our team may recommend a gingivectomy, also known as gum contouring. This minimally invasive procedure is performed in-office to gently remove excess gum tissue, even out the gum line, and expose more of the natural tooth structure.

However, a thorough 3D scan is necessary before treatment. If excessive gum regrowth is likely due to underlying bone structure, additional treatment may be needed to ensure long-term results.

2 Aesthetic Crown Lengthening

(Gum & Bone Reshaping)

For a more permanent and dramatic improvement, aesthetic crown lengthening is the ideal solution. This procedure involves removing both excess gum tissue and underlying bone to eliminate the source of excessive gum growth. By reshaping the bone, we prevent gum regrowth and ensure long-lasting results.

This procedure not only enhances smile aesthetics but can also improve dental function, making future restorations like veneers or crowns more predictable.

Why Correct a Gummy Smile?

While some may see gummy smile correction as a purely cosmetic procedure, it also has important oral health benefits:

Reduced Risk of Tooth Decay & Gum Disease – Excess gum tissue can trap bacteria, making it harder to clean your teeth effectively. Removing extra gum tissue lowers your risk of plaque buildup, decay, and periodontal disease.
Easier At-Home Oral Hygiene – A well-proportioned gum line makes brushing and flossing more effective.
Improved Confidence – A balanced, attractive smile enhances self-esteem and overall well-being.

What to Expect During the Procedure:

What Happens During the Procedure? The procedure typically takes 1-2 hours, depending on how many teeth are involved. We gently remove excess gum tissue and underlying bone to reveal more of your tooth. The gums are then reshaped and sutured in place. Depending on your specific case, we will use dissolvable and/or removable sutures to support healing. We’ll let you know if a follow-up visit is needed to remove them.

Is the Procedure Painful? Not at all, your comfort is our priority. It’s performed under local anesthesia, which means the treatment area will be completely numb. You won’t feel pain during the procedure, and most patients report little to no discomfort throughout. For added comfort, we also offer laughing gas (nitrous oxide) and Xanax if you’re feeling anxious or prefer a more relaxed experience.

What is Expect After the Procedure:

What is the Recovery Like? After the procedure, you can expect some mild swelling or tenderness in the treated area for a few days. This is completely normal and can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or any medications we prescribe. We also recommend eating cold foods (ice cream, smoothies) for the first 1-2 days, as it will soothe the area and reduce swelling. We’ll provide you with detailed post-op instructions to help you heal comfortably.

What Can You Eat After Gum Surgery?

A Complete Periodontal Recovery Diet Guide:

Eating the right foods post-operatively is just as important as the procedure itself, because what you eat after surgery plays a big role in how well and how quickly you heal. After gum surgery, your tissue is delicate and actively healing. The wrong foods can cause irritation, introduce bacteria, or physically disrupt the surgical site. Following a structured diet helps reduce discomfort, prevent complications, and support the best possible outcome.

Click for a Full List of Dietary Guidelines

Day 1

Immediately After Surgery/Day 1:

Keep It Cold and Soft. Right after surgery, your mouth will be tender, and cold foods can help soothe the area and reduce swelling. Stick to things like:

Smoothies (no straws)
Yogurt
Ice cream
Milkshakes
Drink plenty of ice water!

Days 2-3

Days 2-3 After Surgery:

Stick to soft, cool, and non-irritating foods.

Ice cream and sorbet (no nuts or chewy mix-ins)
Smoothies (no seeds or chunks)
Applesauce
Mashed potatoes
Scrambled eggs
Yogurt (plain or smooth, no granola or fruit chunks)
Oatmeal
Protein shakes
Broths and blended soups (lukewarm or cold)
Pudding and custards
Gelatin (Jell-O)

Tip: If you can, use the opposite side of your mouth when eating. Use a spoon instead of a straw to avoid suction pressure.

Days 4-7

Days 4-7 After Surgery:

You may begin to slowly incorporate more variety, but keep the foods soft.

Soft pasta, such as mac and cheese or buttered noodles
Cooked, soft vegetables (steamed carrots, zucchini, squash, sweet potatoes)
Soft fruits (bananas, canned fruits, avocado)
Tender cooked meats (ground turkey/beef/chicken, shredded chicken)
Tofu
Beans and lentils
Soft fish (white fish and salmon)
Pancakes and soft waffles
Cottage cheese and soft cheeses

Week 1-4

1-4 Weeks After Surgery

As healing progresses, you can slowly return to a more normal diet, while continuing to be cautious and still avoiding anything too hard or sharp.

Most cooked vegetables and fruits
Soft grains, pasta, and rice
Lean meats and poultry
Soft sandwiches (no crust or toasted bread)
- Turkey, egg salad, tuna
Muffins or banana bread
Soft tortillas

Foods to Avoid Until Fully Healed

What to AVOID Until Fully Healed:

Crunchy, Sharp, or Pointy Foods: Chips, Pretzels, Popcorn, Crackers, Granola, Nuts (almonds, peanuts, walnuts)
Foods with Seeds or Small Grains: Chia, sesame, poppy seeds, Quinoa, Seeded breads, Berries with small seeds (strawberries, raspberries)
Sticky Foods: Caramels, Taffy, Gummy candy, Fruit snacks
Tough & Chewy Foods: Steak, Beef jerky, Chewy protein bars, Dried fruit (raisins, mango, apricots)
Hard or Crusty Breads: Baguettes, Bagels, Toasted bread
Raw, Hard, or Fibrous Foods: Raw vegetables (carrots, celery, broccoli), Hard fruits (apples, pears)
Spicy Foods: Hot sauce, Chili, Spicy curries
Acidic Foods & Drinks: Citrus (oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruit), Tomato-based sauces, Vinegar and vinaigrettes
Hot Foods & Drinks: Hot coffee or tea, Hot Soups
Habits to Avoid:
- Drinking through a straw
- Chewing on the surgical side
- Smoking
- Alcohol

Gummy Smile Frequently Asked Questions

Will My Gums Grow Back After the Procedure?

No! By reshaping the bone, we prevent gum regrowth and ensure permanent results. The gums are sculpted to their new position, and they do not regenerate or return to their original height. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, your new gumline will stay healthy and stable for the long term.

How Do I Know If I Need Gummy Smile Correction?

If you are unhappy with the appearance of your smile due to excess gum tissue, gummy smile correction may be the right solution. The best way to determine your treatment options is to schedule a consultation with our experienced team. We will carefully evaluate your smile and discuss your aesthetic goals to develop a customized plan.

Is Gummy Smile Correction Painful?

Not at all, your comfort is our priority. It’s performed under local anesthesia, which means the treatment area will be completely numb. You won’t feel pain during the procedure, and most patients report little to no discomfort throughout. For added comfort, we also offer laughing gas (nitrous oxide) and Xanax if you’re feeling anxious or prefer a more relaxed experience.

When Will I See Results?

You’ll see results immediately! The final gum contour will settle in over several weeks as the tissue heals.

Can I Brush and Floss Like Normal After the Procedure?

Not immediately. Only brush and floss the teeth that were not involved in the surgery. Avoid the surgical site for the first week. We’ll provide you with specific home care instructions.

Our Transformative Results