Gummy smile treatment in Penrith.
A gummy smile at Bella Dental Penrith is treated based on the cause. Treatment options include gum recontouring (gingivectomy or crown lengthening) for excess gum tissue, botulinum toxin injections for a hyperactive upper lip, orthodontics for bite-related cases, lip repositioning surgery for a short or hyperactive upper lip, and orthognathic jaw surgery for vertical maxillary excess. We will measure your gum display, identify the cause, and recommend the right option — most cases are treatable with a single short procedure.
What is a gummy smile?
A gummy smile (excess gingival display) is a smile that shows a noticeable amount of gum above the upper teeth. It is not a medical problem in itself, but it is a common cosmetic concern. Aesthetic preferences vary, but most patients and dentists consider more than 3 to 4 mm of gum display as noticeable, and more than 5 to 6 mm as a gummy smile.
A gummy smile is not “wrong” — it is a normal variation. Treatment is a personal
choice.
What causes a gummy smile?
The 6 most common causes:
- Altered passive eruption. The most common cause. The teeth did not fully erupt through the gum, leaving a band of excess gum covering part of the tooth crown.
- Short or hyperactive upper lip. The upper lip rises too high when smiling, exposing more gum.
- Vertical maxillary excess. The upper jaw grew too long, pushing the gum down and increasing gum display.
- Tooth wear or incomplete eruption. Worn or short teeth make the gum-to-tooth ratio look off.
- Gingival overgrowth. From medications (some blood pressure drugs, anti-epileptics, immunosuppressants), pregnancy hormones, or inflammation.
- Jaw protrusion. A forward-positioned upper jaw makes the gum more visible.
Often more than one factor is involved.
How is a gummy smile assessed?
At your consultation we will:
- Measure how much gum shows when you smile (in millimetres)
- Measure the clinical crown of the upper teeth (the visible part above the gum)
- Check the relationship between the gum and the upper lip
- Assess the bite and the jaw position
- Take photos and x-rays to plan treatment
- Sometimes take a CBCT scan for surgical planning
Knowing the exact cause is the difference between a result you are happy with and one you are not. We will not start treatment without a clear picture.
What are the treatment options?
The 5 main options, depending on the cause:
Gum recontouring (gingivectomy or crown lengthening).
For excess gum tissue (altered passive eruption or gingival overgrowth). A small surgical procedure to remove or reshape the excess gum, often with a laser or a scalpel. Done in the dental chair under local anaesthetic.
Botulinum toxin injections.
For a hyperactive upper lip. The injection relaxes the muscle that lifts the upper lip, reducing gum display. Effect lasts 3 to 4 months, and treatment is repeated. We refer to a practitioner who offers this.
Orthodontics (clear aligners or braces).
For gummy smiles caused by bite problems or mild vertical maxillary excess. Moves the teeth and the jaw into a better position over 6 to 24 months.
Lip repositioning surgery.
For a hyperactive or short upper lip. A small surgical procedure to lower the attachment of the upper lip. Done by a periodontist or oral surgeon.
Orthognathic jaw surgery.
For severe vertical maxillary excess. Major surgery done by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, usually combined with orthodontics.
Often a combination is right. For example, gum recontouring plus botulinum toxin for a mild case with both excess gum and a hyperactive lip.
How is gum recontouring done?
Gum recontouring (gingivectomy or crown lengthening) is a routine procedure:
- Numbing. Local anaesthetic. The procedure is painless.
- Marking the new gum line. We mark the planned gum height to match the rest of the smile.
- Reshaping. Excess gum is removed with a laser, electrocautery, or a scalpel. The underlying bone may also be recontoured (crown lengthening).
- Healing. The gum heals within 1 to 2 weeks. Mild soreness for 2 to 3 days.
- Review. A follow-up at 1 to 2 weeks to check healing.
The result is visible immediately and is permanent.
How long do results last?
- Gum recontouring: permanent. The removed gum does not grow back. There can be minor relapse if the cause is hormonal or medication-related.
- Botulinum toxin: 3 to 4 months per session. Repeat treatments needed to maintain the result.
- Orthodontics: permanent, if retainers are worn.
- Lip repositioning surgery: permanent, although some relapse is possible.
- Jaw surgery: permanent.
Book a gummy smile consultation at Bella Dental Penrith
We are at Shop T12, Southlands Shopping Centre, 2 Birmingham Road, South Penrith NSW 2750. Phone (02) 4722 6300 to book, or send us a message through the contact form on this site. Open Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm, with extended hours to 6 pm on Wednesdays.
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Is a gummy smile a medical problem?
No. It is a normal variation, not a disease. Treatment is a personal choice, often for cosmetic reasons.
What is a normal amount of gum to show?
Most dentists consider 1 to 3 mm of gum display normal. 3 to 5 mm is noticeable. More than 5 to 6 mm is generally considered a gummy smile.
Will gum recontouring hurt?
No. The gum is numbed with local anaesthetic, and most patients report only mild discomfort for 2 to 3 days afterwards. Over-the-counter pain relief is usually enough.
How long does the gum take to heal?
Initial healing within 1 to 2 weeks. Full healing within 4 to 6 weeks. The cosmetic result is visible immediately.
Will my teeth look bigger after gum recontouring?
Yes, by the amount of gum removed (usually 1 to 3 mm). The teeth are not actually bigger — more of them is showing. This is usually the desired effect.
Can a gummy smile be fixed without surgery?
Sometimes. Botulinum toxin can reduce gum display from a hyperactive lip, and orthodontics can correct bite-related cases. Surgical options are for cases where the cause is structural (excess gum tissue, vertical maxillary excess).
Is botulinum toxin safe for gummy smile?
Yes, when administered by a trained clinician. The effect is temporary and reversible. It is a good option for patients who want a non-surgical fix, or who are not ready for surgery.