Periodontal
Gummy Smile Treatment
If you feel like your smile shows too much gum tissue, you may have what’s known as a gummy smile (excessive gingival display). This can make your teeth appear short or uneven, affecting both aesthetics and confidence. At District Dental Surgery, our expert periodontists specialize in precise gum sculpting procedures to create a beautifully balanced, natural-looking smile.
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!

What 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 – Teeth that are small or have worn down over time can appear “hidden” behind the gums.
- Hyperactive Upper Lip – A lip that moves too high when smiling can expose more gum tissue than usual.
- Jaw Structure (Skeletal Discrepancy) – 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
Esthetic Crown Lengthening – Gum & Bone Reshaping
For a more permanent and dramatic improvement, esthetic 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.
If you’re considering gummy smile treatment, our team is here to answer your questions and guide you through the process.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
Gum contouring is a minimally invasive procedure performed under local anesthesia, ensuring a comfortable experience. Most patients report little to no discomfort during the procedure, and recovery is smooth and manageable.
- Some minor bleeding after the procedure is normal. Spotty bleeding may occur for a few days. If needed, apply firm pressure with damp gauze for 10 minutes to stop bleeding.
- Most patients fully recover within one week.
- Keeping the area clean is essential during healing. Rinse with warm salt water twice daily and take prescribed antibiotics as directed.
- Eat only soft foods during the healing period to avoid irritation.
Our Transformative Results

Gummy Smile Treatment

Gummy Smile Treatment

Gummy Smile Treatment
Testimonials
What Patients Are Saying
Dr. Yousefi was fantastic. She was calm, funny, and capable. She immediately put me at ease (I was pretty anxious). I have never been numbed up so quickly and near painlessly – and the rest of the procedure was then painless, too. She and her team gave clear directions as to what to do for the next 24 hours and beyond, what to eat, how to care for the flipper temporary tooth, and answered all my questions. The staff called me the next business day to follow up and answered more questions that I had come up with by then. Highly recommend.
Phyllis R.
Sara is an excellent dental hygienist and really cares about her patients. She is very good at providing a regimen to help my gums. Dr. Eskow did my gum revision surgery years ago and he’s the best. I recently needed some more work done around the come on 12 and Dr. Eskow handled it beautifully, and his assistant Emily was great.. And the staff at the front desk always makes it a pleasant visit.
Mimi B.
My family and I have been patients for maybe 10-15 years! After trying a bunch of different dentists, we found Dr. Yousefi and have been happy with her team and their services ever since. She has helped us with minor issues as well as major long-term care, including a broken tooth and a few implants. The service has always been amazing, and we are very happy with the quality and expertise here. The new, amazing facilities with super convenient parking are just the cherry on top!
Dmitry K.
Two weeks post-surgery and I couldn’t recommend this office more. Both doctors are wonderful and clearly very experienced with a patient-first mindset. The office followed up frequently after my surgery to ensure I was recovering well and to answer any questions. After two weeks, I have no pain from the surgery and the gums have already healed up. If you are in need of any dental surgery work, I would 100% recommend this office!
Michael A.
I highly recommend Dr. Andrew Tong and the team at District Dental Surgery! Dr. Tong is an exceptional periodontist who combines professionalism, expertise, and compassion to deliver top-notch patient care. His outstanding communication skills and genuine concern for his patients’ well-being, along with the team’s professionalism, make for a truly exceptional experience. Sara, the hygienist, is also fantastic – her gentle and meticulous approach puts patients at ease. I’m so grateful to have found a dental team that truly prioritizes patient care and comfort!
Guncha K.
Sholto S.
I’ve been a patient of Dr. Raha Yousefi for over two years, and she is truly one of the best. From day one, her professionalism and genuine care for her patients were evident. Dr. Yousefi’s expertise in dentistry is outstanding, and she takes the time to explain every step of the treatment, ensuring I feel comfortable and informed. Her warm and compassionate personality makes every visit a pleasant experience, and it’s clear she deeply values her patients. The staff at her practice is equally amazing—always friendly, professional, and welcoming. I highly recommend Dr. Yousefi to anyone seeking a dentist who combines professional excellence with heartfelt care.
Cezanne B.
District Dental Surgery Locations

Washington, DC
(Formerly Known as District Perio)
1828 L St NW Suite 860 Washington, DC 20036
