A gummy smile, also known as excessive gingival display, is a smile that shows an excessive amount of gum under the upper lip. It is a common unaesthetic clinical condition that can be caused by various factors such as genetics, jaw development, incorrect bite, hyperactive or overly short upper lip, and excessive gum tissue. A gummy smile is not an oral health concern, but many patients find it aesthetically displeasing and are ashamed of the look.

There is no set definition of a gummy smile, and it is mainly based on perception. In most cases, people like smiles that expose two millimeters or less of gum tissue. Any more than that, most people consider a smile “too gummy” . Interestingly, the condition is more common in women than men, and some experts predict that about 14% of women and 7% of men have excessive gingival display.

There are various treatment options available to fix a gummy smile, depending on the underlying cause. These include:

• Orthodontic treatment: Braces and aligners can help reposition teeth into a more suitable position, which can correct some gummy smiles.
• Gum contouring: This procedure involves removing excess gum tissue to reveal more of the teeth.
• Lip repositioning surgery: This procedure involves repositioning the upper lip to cover more of the gums.
• Veneers or crowns: If there arent any underlying issues causing a patients gummy smile, veneers or crowns can be ideal non-invasive treatment options. These are attached to the teeth to make them appear more proportionate to the gums.
• Scaling and root planing: If a gummy smile is caused by inflamed or infected gums, the best place to start is with a deep professional dental cleaning called “scaling” and “root planing.” This advanced cleaning can reach deep into the gum pockets around each tooth to remove bacteria and help any infection heal.

It is important to consult a dental professional to determine the best treatment option for an individuals specific case.