COSMETIC CARE
Gummy Smile Treatment
Targeted treatments including gum contouring and muscle relaxants to balance excessive gum display and enhance smile aesthetics.
A gummy smile, where a noticeable amount of gum tissue shows above the upper teeth, is a common cosmetic concern that can affect how confident you feel about your appearance. At Dentists @ Canning Vale, we take a thorough approach to assessment because excessive gum display can have several different causes, and the right treatment depends entirely on what's driving it.
What Causes a Gummy Smile?
A gummy smile isn't always caused by the same thing, which is why a proper assessment matters before any treatment is recommended. Common contributing factors include:
Excess Gingival Tissue
In some cases, the teeth have erupted normally but remain partially covered by excess gum tissue. A minor contouring procedure (gingivectomy) can gently remove the excess tissue to reveal more of the natural tooth crown.
Small or Worn Teeth
Teeth that are naturally small, short, or worn down from grinding can make the gum display appear more prominent. Restorative options like composite bonding or porcelain veneers can increase the visible length of the teeth to create a more balanced ratio.
Upper Lip Hyperactivity
Some people have a highly active upper lip that rises higher than average when smiling, exposing more gum tissue regardless of actual gum or tooth size.
Bite or Jaw Position
An overbite, deep bite, or vertical maxillary excess (where the upper jaw is positioned further down than usual) can cause more gum to show when speaking and smiling. Orthodontic treatment, such as Invisalign or braces, can help reposition the teeth and jaw into better alignment.
Multiple Contributing Factors
Many patients have a combination of these factors at play. This is why treatment should always be personalised, what works for one patient may not be the right solution for another.
Treatment Options for a Gummy Smile
Treatment recommendations depend on the assessment findings and the primary cause. Options we may discuss include:
Gum Contouring
For patients where excess gum tissue is the primary issue, gum contouring, also known as a gum lift, reshapes the gum line to reveal more of the natural tooth surface. This is often one of the most direct and effective solutions for gummy smiles caused by excess gingival tissue.
Porcelain Veneers & Bonding
Where teeth appear short due to natural size or tooth wear, composite bonding or porcelain veneers can increase the visible length of the teeth to create a more balanced ratio.
Orthodontic Treatment
In cases where tooth or jaw position contributes to excessive gum display, orthodontic treatment such as Invisalign® or braces may help reposition teeth and improve alignment.
Combination Approaches
For patients with multiple contributing factors, a combination of treatments often delivers the best and most natural-looking outcome. Your consultation will outline what a combined approach might involve for your specific circumstances.
Your Gummy Smile Consultation
Every gummy smile is different, which is why we never recommend a one-size-fits-all solution. At your consultation, your dentist and our team will:
- Assess your smile, gum tissue, teeth and facial proportions
- Identify the underlying cause or causes of excessive gum display
- Discuss your cosmetic goals and any concerns you have
- Explain which treatment options are suitable for your situation
- Provide a clear treatment plan and cost estimate before anything proceeds
No pressure to commit on the day. We want you to feel informed and confident before making any decisions. Individual results, healing times and outcomes vary, and we will provide realistic expectations based on your specific assessment before any treatment begins.
What Results Can I Expect?
The goal of treatment is to achieve a balanced, harmonious smile that suits your facial features. Results vary depending on the underlying cause and the treatment method chosen. During your consultation, we use digital imaging and mock-ups where appropriate to show you what can realistically be achieved before any procedure begins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a gummy smile a dental health problem?
In most cases, no, a gummy smile is generally a cosmetic concern rather than a health issue. However, some causes, such as gum overgrowth related to medication side effects or gum disease, do have clinical implications. This is why a thorough assessment is important before any treatment is recommended.
How do I know which treatment is right for me?
The right treatment depends entirely on the cause. Gum contouring works well for excess tissue; veneers suit patients with short or worn teeth; orthodontics may help where tooth position is a factor. We will not recommend a treatment until we understand what's actually causing your gummy smile.
Is gum contouring painful?
The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic, so discomfort during treatment is minimal. Some tenderness and sensitivity in the gum tissue is normal in the days following treatment and typically settles within one to two weeks.
How long does recovery take after gum contouring?
Most patients recover within one to two weeks. You will be given specific aftercare instructions to support healing, including dietary recommendations and oral hygiene guidance for the initial recovery period.
What results can I expect from treatment?
The goal of treatment is to achieve a balanced, harmonious smile that suits your facial features. Results vary depending on the underlying cause and the treatment method chosen. During your consultation, we use digital imaging and mock-ups where appropriate to show you what can realistically be achieved before any procedure begins.
Can a gummy smile come back after treatment?
This depends on the treatment and the cause. Gum contouring results are generally long-lasting, though some gum regrowth can occur in certain patients over time. Your dentist will discuss expected longevity and any relevant considerations during your consultation.
Ready to Discuss Your Smile?
If excessive gum display affects how comfortable you feel smiling, we invite you to book a consultation at Dentists @ Canning Vale. Our experienced team will evaluate the cause of your gummy smile and outline personalised treatment options to help you achieve the smile you want. Contact Dentists @ Canning Vale to arrange a consultation with one of our dentists.
Unit 8, 3 South Street Canning Vale · [email protected]
Important Information
This page provides general information only and is not a substitute for professional dental advice. Treatment suitability, results and costs vary between patients.
Dental procedures, including surgical procedures, have potential risks and limitations. Your dentist will discuss those relevant to your proposed treatment.
A consultation with one of our dentists is required to assess whether this treatment is appropriate for you. Book a consultation or call 08 9256 2588.
References & Further Reading
This page is based on current clinical literature and guidelines from recognised Australian and international dental and health authorities.
- Australian Dental Association. ada.org.au
- Dental Board of Australia (AHPRA). dentalboard.gov.au
- Australian Society of Implant Dentistry (ASID). asid.com.au
- Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) - Medical Devices. tga.gov.au
- Australian Society of Orthodontists. aso.org.au
- Australian Periodontology - ADA Oral Health Topics. ada.org.au/Dental-Professionals/Publications/Oral-Health-Topics
Content reviewed by Dr Desmond Ng, BDSc (Hons) University of Queensland | Principal Dentist, Dentists at Canning Vale. Last reviewed July 2026.