Periodontal
Gummy Smile Treatment
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 I Eat After the Procedure? Eating the right foods post-operatively is just as important as the procedure itself. To help you heal properly and keep you comfortable, stick to soft, gentle foods that don’t require much chewing, especially in the first few days.
Day 1
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 2-14
Days 2–14: Soft, Room Temperature Foods.
As healing progresses, you can slowly add in more soft foods that don’t require much chewing. Think:
- Mashed potatoes
- Scrambled eggs
- Oatmeal
- Cooked pasta
- Cooked, soft vegetables (squash, zucchini, potatoes)
- Soft fruits (bananas, canned fruits, avocado)
- Tender cooked meats (shredded chicken, ground turkey, ground beef)
- Soft fish (white fish or salmon)
- Pancakes
- Cottage cheese or soft cheeses
Rule of thumb: If you can smash it with a fork, you can eat it. Steamed carrot? Yes. Raw carrot? Not yet.
Foods to Avoid Until Fully Healed
Foods to Avoid
To prevent irritation or damage to the graft site, avoid:
- Crunchy foods (chips, nuts, raw veggies)
- Seeds or small grains (chia, quinoa, sesame seeds, poppy seeds)
- Hard bread or crusty rolls
- Spicy or acidic foods
- Hot foods and drinks for the first couple of days
- Sticky foods (caramels, gummy candy, chewing gum)
- Anything that requires a lot of chewing
NO:
- Straws
- Alcohol
- Smoking
- Chewing on the surgical side
Gummy Smile Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
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.
You’ll see results immediately! The final gum contour will settle in over several weeks as the tissue heals.
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.
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District Dental Surgery Locations
Washington, DC
(Formerly Known as District Perio)
1828 L St NW Suite 860 Washington, DC 20036
