COSMETIC CARE
Gummy Smile Treatment
If you feel that too much of your gums show when you smile, you may have what is commonly known as a "gummy smile".
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 Gum Tissue
In some patients, gum tissue covers more of the tooth than usual, making teeth appear shorter. The underlying tooth may be a normal length, simply hidden beneath excess gum.
Short or Worn Teeth
Teeth that are naturally small or have worn down over time can create a disproportionate gum-to-tooth ratio, making the gums appear more prominent.
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.
Jaw Development
The position or growth pattern of the upper jaw can influence how much gum is visible. Vertical excess of the upper jaw can contribute to a gummy smile in some cases.
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.
Dental Veneers
Where teeth appear short due to their natural size or wear, porcelain veneers can improve tooth proportions and create a more balanced, aesthetically pleasing smile without altering the gum tissue.
Orthodontic Treatment
In some cases, the position of the teeth contributes to the appearance of a gummy smile. Orthodontic treatment, such as Invisalign® - may help reposition teeth and improve overall smile aesthetics as part of a broader plan.
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, Dr Desmond Ng 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?
Results vary depending on the treatment involved and your individual anatomy. In general, patients who undergo gummy smile treatment report feeling more comfortable smiling in photos, social situations and at work. Our focus is always on achieving natural-looking outcomes that complement your facial features, not a dramatic or over-treated appearance.
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.
Will the results look natural?
Yes, that is our priority. We tailor gummy smile treatment to your individual facial proportions and smile aesthetics. The goal is a balanced result that looks like your smile, just with improved proportions.
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.
Book a Gummy Smile Consultation in Canning Vale
If you are self-conscious about how much gum shows when you smile, there are options, and finding the right one starts with understanding the cause. Contact Dentists @ Canning Vale to arrange a consultation with Dr Desmond Ng.
Unit 8, 3 South Street Canning Vale · admin@dacv.com.au
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.
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.