A confident smile plays a major role in how we feel about our appearance. However, for some people, smiling reveals an excessive amount of gum above the upper teeth.
This is commonly known as a gummy smile and, while harmless from a medical point of view, it can have a significant impact on self-confidence.
The good news is that modern dentistry and maxillofacial techniques offer several effective ways to correct a gummy smile.
In this guide, we explain what a gummy smile is, what causes it, and the treatment options available in the UK and abroad.
What Is a Gummy Smile?
A gummy smile refers to a smile in which an excessive amount of gum tissue is visible above the upper teeth.
As a general guideline, more than 3–4 millimetres of exposed gum when smiling is often considered a gummy smile.
In a balanced smile, the teeth are the main focal point, with only a small amount of gum visible.
When too much gum shows, the teeth may appear short or disproportionate, even if they are a normal size.
The severity of a gummy smile varies from person to person. Some people experience mild gum exposure, while others may have a more pronounced appearance that affects their confidence.
What Causes a Gummy Smile?
A gummy smile can occur for several reasons, and identifying the underlying cause is essential for choosing the most appropriate treatment.
Common causes include:
Hyperactive upper lip muscles
The muscles that lift the upper lip may move too far upwards when smiling, exposing more gum tissue than usual.Excessive upper jaw growth (vertical maxillary excess)
In some cases, the upper jaw sits lower than normal, making the gums more visible.Altered passive eruption
This occurs when the gums cover too much of the teeth, even though the teeth themselves are fully developed.Short or worn teeth
Teeth that appear short due to wear or genetics can exaggerate the appearance of the gums.
Because there are multiple potential causes, a professional assessment is crucial before starting any treatment.
How Can a Gummy Smile Be Corrected?
There is no single solution for every case. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the gummy smile, as well as the patient’s expectations.
1. Gum Contouring and Laser Gum Reshaping
For mild cases where excess gum tissue covers the teeth, gum contouring may be recommended.
This procedure reshapes the gum line to expose more of the natural tooth structure.
Often performed using laser technology
Usually carried out under local anaesthetic
Minimal recovery time
This option is commonly used when altered passive eruption is the main cause.
2. Botulinum Toxin (Botox) for Gummy Smile
If a gummy smile is caused by a hyperactive upper lip, botulinum toxin injections can help.
Relaxes the muscles that lift the upper lip
Reduces gum exposure when smiling
Results typically last 3–6 months
This is a non-surgical, temporary solution and may suit patients who want to avoid invasive procedures.
3. Crown Lengthening Procedure
Crown lengthening involves removing small amounts of gum and, in some cases, bone tissue to expose more of the tooth surface.
Improves tooth proportions
Can be combined with restorative treatments
Requires a short healing period
This option is often chosen when the teeth appear short due to gum coverage.
4. Orthognathic (Jaw) Surgery for Severe Gummy Smile
For severe cases caused by skeletal issues, orthognathic surgery may be recommended.
Repositions the upper jaw to a more balanced position
Performed by a specialist maxillofacial surgeon
Requires general anaesthesia and a longer recovery period
This is usually considered only when other treatments are insufficient and functional or aesthetic concerns are significant.
5. Dental Veneers or Crowns for Gummy Smile
In certain cases, veneers or porcelain crowns can improve the appearance of a gummy smile by lengthening the visible portion of the teeth.
Creates better tooth-to-gum proportions
Often combined with gum contouring
Suitable when tooth shape contributes to the issue
This approach focuses on aesthetic enhancement rather than altering the gums or jaw.
What Results Can You Expect After Gummy Smile Treatment?
Most patients experience a noticeable improvement in the balance between their teeth, gums and lips.
A successful gummy smile correction typically results in:
Reduced gum visibility
Improved smile symmetry
Greater confidence when smiling
It is important to remember that results vary depending on the treatment method and individual anatomy.
What Should You Consider Before and After Gummy Smile Treatment?
Before Gummy Smile Treatment
Book a consultation with a UK-registered dentist or maxillofacial surgeon
Identify the underlying cause of the gummy smile
Discuss all available treatment options, risks and expected outcomes
Consider costs, recovery time and whether results are temporary or permanent
After Gummy Smile Treatment
Follow all aftercare instructions carefully
Attend follow-up appointments as recommended
Maintain good oral hygiene to support healing
Allow sufficient recovery time, especially after surgical procedures
Non-surgical treatments may allow an immediate return to daily activities, while surgical options can require several weeks of healing.
Can a Gummy Smile Be Fixed Permanently?
Yes. Thanks to advances in modern dentistry and facial surgery, a gummy smile can be corrected safely and effectively in most cases.
Whether through minimally invasive procedures such as botulinum toxin injections or more comprehensive treatments like gum reshaping or jaw surgery, there are solutions tailored to different needs.
A personalised assessment by a qualified professional is the key to achieving natural-looking, long-lasting results.
Is Gummy Smile Treatment Safe?
When performed by a qualified and experienced dental or medical professional, gummy smile treatment is generally considered safe.
The level of risk depends on the type of treatment chosen and the individual patient’s health and anatomy.
Non-surgical options such as botulinum toxin injections and laser gum contouring are minimally invasive and typically involve little to no downtime.
Side effects, when they occur, are usually mild and temporary, such as slight swelling, tenderness or bruising.
Surgical treatments, including crown lengthening or orthognathic (jaw) surgery, carry higher risks, as with any surgical procedure.
These may include infection, bleeding or a longer recovery period.
However, such procedures are carefully planned and carried out under strict clinical guidelines to minimise complications.
A thorough consultation, accurate diagnosis and clear discussion of risks and benefits are essential to ensure safe and predictable results.
Choosing a registered dentist or maxillofacial surgeon is key to achieving the best outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gummy Smile Treatment
Below are some of the most common questions our patients from the UK ask about gummy smile correction.
What is considered a gummy smile?
A gummy smile is usually defined as showing more than 3–4 millimetres of gum tissue above the upper teeth when smiling. The perception can vary depending on facial proportions and personal preference.
Can a gummy smile be fixed without surgery?
Yes. Mild to moderate gummy smiles can often be treated with non-surgical options such as botulinum toxin injections, gum contouring or crown lengthening, depending on the cause.
How long do gummy smile treatments last?
The longevity of results depends on the treatment:
Botulinum toxin injections typically last 3–6 months
Gum contouring and crown lengthening are usually permanent
Surgical jaw correction provides long-term or permanent results
Is gummy smile treatment painful?
Most treatments involve minimal discomfort. Local anaesthetic is commonly used for gum procedures, and post-treatment discomfort is usually mild and temporary.
How much does gummy smile treatment cost in the UK?
Costs vary depending on the procedure, complexity of the case and location of the clinic. Non-surgical treatments are generally more affordable, while surgical options involve higher costs due to specialist care and recovery time.
Who is not suitable for gummy smile treatment?
Some patients may not be suitable for certain procedures due to medical conditions, oral health issues or unrealistic expectations. A professional assessment is necessary to determine suitability.
Medical Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified dental or medical professional before starting any treatment.