A smile says a lot about you—it’s often the first thing people notice. But what if you're self-conscious about how much gum shows when you smile?
You're not alone. Many people struggle with what’s commonly called a gummy smile. It can affect your confidence, even if your teeth are perfectly healthy.
Let’s unravel this dental concern and explore how modern treatments like veneers at Dr. Addie Chang’s office can transform not just your gums—but your entire sense of self-confidence...
A gummy smile, or excessive gingival display, occurs when too much gum tissue shows above your upper teeth when you smile—typically more than 2 to 3 millimeters.
While a gummy smile isn’t usually harmful, it can affect how people perceive themselves. Think about it: Would a beautiful painting be complete if the frame overpowered it? The same concept applies to your teeth and gums.
To understand a gummy smile, you first need to know what creates a balanced, beautiful smile.
In an ideal smile, your gums frame your teeth—not dominate them. When the gum-to-tooth ratio is off, it can make even straight, white teeth appear shorter or "hidden."
Your upper lip's height, mobility, and your jaw’s vertical positioning can also impact how much gum shows when you flash a grin.
Gummy smiles aren't “one-size-fits-all”—they can stem from various anatomical or developmental issues.
Sometimes it’s just a matter of too much gum covering your teeth, making them appear smaller than they are.
In some cases, the muscles that lift the upper lip are overactive, pulling the lip higher than normal when smiling.
Teeth that are naturally small or have worn down over time can exaggerate the gum's appearance.
An overgrown upper jawbone may extend downward, increasing the amount of visible gum.
As with many dental features, a gummy smile can run in families. If your parents had one, you might, too.
Your journey toward a confident smile starts with an accurate diagnosis.
Dentists begin with a visual exam, measuring how much gum shows when you talk and smile.
Digital X-rays or CT scans can reveal jawbone abnormalities or gum overgrowth.
This in-depth study uses photos, software, and simulations to map out your smile aesthetics.
Though often cosmetic, a gummy smile can sometimes hint at deeper oral health issues.
If your bite is fine and you have no pain, it’s likely just aesthetic. But if your teeth are misaligned or your jaw causes discomfort, a more serious issue may be at play.
Excess gum tissue can trap bacteria, leading to inflammation or even periodontal disease.
Not every case needs a scalpel—some can be addressed with subtle, non-invasive methods.
Botox can temporarily relax the upper lip muscles, lowering your smile line just enough to reduce gum visibility.
Traditional braces can move your teeth upward, reducing visible gum space.
Clear aligners achieve similar effects discreetly, especially for milder cases.
When non-invasive options aren’t enough, surgical approaches can offer long-lasting results.
This reshapes the gum line and exposes more of the tooth’s surface—improving proportion and aesthetics.
By shortening the distance between the lip and gums, this surgery limits how high your lip lifts when smiling.
For severe cases involving bone structure, jaw surgery repositions the upper jaw to reduce excessive gum display.
These procedures trim away excess gum tissue and contour the remaining gum for a natural look.
Technology to the rescue—laser dentistry offers a sleek and bloodless alternative.
Lasers gently vaporize gum tissue with precision, reducing bleeding, swelling, and healing time.
Perfect for patients with minor gum overgrowth—recovery is quick, with most people resuming normal activities within days.
Sometimes, the answer lies in reshaping your teeth—not your gums.
Porcelain veneers can elongate small teeth, making your smile appear more balanced.
If your gums are fine but your teeth are short or worn, veneers may be the ideal solution.
A combination of treatments can often deliver the best aesthetic outcome.
You may need a mix of laser contouring, veneers, and orthodontics depending on your smile goals.
A qualified dentist like Dr. Addie Chang will tailor your plan, factoring in facial structure, lip movement, and even your personality!
Most non-surgical treatments heal in a few days. Surgical ones may take a few weeks—patience pays off.
A proper diagnosis is key to finding the most effective, least invasive option.
Dentists trained in cosmetic smile analysis can craft solutions that enhance your features—without overdoing it.
Complex cases may involve a team: orthodontists, periodontists, and cosmetic dentists.
| Treatment | Estimated Cost (USD) |
| Botox | $300–$600 per session |
| Laser Contouring | $500–$3,000 |
| Crown Lengthening | $1,000–$4,000 |
| Orthognathic Surgery | $20,000–$40,000 |
| Veneers | $900–$2,500 per tooth |
While cosmetic treatments are rarely covered, medically necessary ones might be. Many offices offer payment plans to ease the cost.
Botox may last 4–6 months, while surgeries and laser treatments offer more permanent results.
Routine checkups, good oral hygiene, and possible touch-ups ensure your smile stays perfect.
Brush twice a day, floss, and see your dentist regularly—it keeps your gums healthy and stable.
Stay away from medications that cause gum overgrowth unless medically necessary, and maintain regular dental cleanings.
Confidence isn’t just about symmetry—it’s about how you feel. Some people choose to embrace their gummy smile and wear it proudly.
Curious how your smile could look? Digital Smile Design lets you “test-drive” your new look before committing to treatment.
Located in Tukwila, WA, Dr. Addie Chang provides personalized dental services tailored to your needs—including gummy smile correction. Our private practice emphasizes comfort, compassion, and convenience.
With a friendly team, a clean environment, and in-network options for many insurance plans, your path to a better smile has never been easier. And yes—plenty of free parking makes visiting a breeze.
Dr. Chang’s gentle, patient-first approach makes all the difference. Your smile is in trusted hands. Contact us today.
A gummy smile isn’t just a cosmetic issue—it’s a window into your dental anatomy, oral health, and self-esteem. Thanks to modern dental techniques, you no longer have to hide your joy.
Whether you opt for a quick fix like Botox or go for a complete smile makeover, there’s a path toward confidence. And with experts like Dr. Addie Chang in Tukwila, WA, that path is more accessible than ever.So… what are you waiting for? Smile like you mean it. Schedule today.
