What Causes a Gummy Smile?

A gummy smile is characterised by excessive visible gum tissue when you smile. For many, it can affect self-esteem and overall confidence, making social events and even everyday interactions difficult. Whether it’s avoiding photos, feeling self-conscious during conversations, or shying away from letting your smile shine, the impact of a gummy smile can be significant. Fortunately, here at Perfect Smile Spa, we’ve got the solutions you need to smile confidently.   

In this blog, we’ll explore the main causes of a gummy smile and discover the treatments designed to enhance your smile and boost your confidence with the Essex dentist team here at Perfect Smile Spa.  

What Causes a Gummy Smile?  

There are multiple causes of a gummy smile, including: 

Excess Gum Tissue 

One of the main reasons for a gummy smile is the presence of excess gum tissue. When the gums extend over the teeth more than usual, they can overshadow the teeth, making them appear smaller and the smile less balanced. This could be due to genetics or certain medications that lead to gum overgrowth.  

Lip Structure and Function  

The structure and movement of your lips can also contribute to a gummy smile. If your upper lip is more pronounced or rises higher than average when you smile, it can expose more of your gums. This is usually related to the anatomy of the lip muscles and their interaction with the gums and teeth.  

Teeth Position and Size  

The positioning and size of your teeth are key when it comes to how much gum is visible when you smile. Smaller teeth or teeth that are positioned in a way that reveals more gum can make a gummy smile look more pronounced.  

Jaw and Bone Structure 

Your jaw and underlying bone structure can also influence the appearance of a gummy smile. If you have an abnormal bone structure of if your jaw protrudes, it can cause the gums to appear more prominent.  

How Can I Treat a Gummy Smile?

Here at Perfect Smile Spa, we offer advanced treatment for lessening the appearance of a gummy smile using a gum lift, also known as gum reshaping or gum contouring. During the procedure, our private dentists in Essex use special dental lasers or electrosurgery to carefully reshape and trim excess gum tissue to create a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing.  

The technique is minimally invasive and allows for precise adjustments to the gum line. This helps to ensure a natural and harmonious result that enhances the overall appearance of your teeth and smile.  

The benefits of gum reshaping include: 

• Enhanced aesthetics  
• Quick and comfortable  
• Immediate and natural-looking results 
• Customised treatment 
• Attentive care  
• Confidence boost  

Redefine Your Smile with Perfect Smile spa  

A gummy smile doesn’t have to take away your self-esteem. Understanding the causes of a gummy smile—whether it’s excess gum tissue, lip structure, teeth position, or bone structure—can be the first step towards finding a solution that works for you. 

At Perfect Smile Spa, our team of experienced dentists are skilled in transforming self-conscious smiles into beautifully confident smiles. With our unique gum reshaping methods and commitment to natural-looking results, we’re here to help you achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of.  

Book your free consultation today or get in touch with our team to learn more about what gum reshaping can do for you and your smile.