A “gummy smile” is one of those things people notice in photos before they notice it in the mirror. You smile, you look happy, and then—boom—your eyes go straight to the extra gum showing above your top teeth. If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s fixable (or if you’re stuck with it forever), the good news is: in most cases, yes, it’s absolutely fixable.
What makes it tricky is that a gummy smile isn’t just one condition with one simple solution. It’s a look that can come from several different causes—some related to the gums, some to the teeth, some to the lip, and some to the jaw. The best treatment depends on what’s actually driving it.
This guide walks you through the most common reasons gummy smiles happen, how dentists and specialists figure out what’s going on, and the real-world treatment options that can make your smile look more balanced—often without changing “you” at all, just the proportions.
What people mean when they say “gummy smile”
In everyday terms, a gummy smile means you show a noticeable amount of gum tissue above your upper front teeth when you smile. Some people show 1–2 mm and love it. Others show 4–6 mm and feel like their teeth look “too small,” even if the teeth are healthy and normal-sized.
There isn’t a single universal cutoff that makes a smile “too gummy.” It’s more about harmony: how the teeth, gums, lips, and face balance together. If it bothers you, that’s enough reason to explore options—especially since many are conservative and predictable.
It’s also worth saying out loud: a gummy smile isn’t a health problem by itself. Plenty of people have one and never think twice. The reason it comes up in dentistry is because it’s often tied to something we can adjust safely—like gum levels, tooth proportions, or lip movement.
Why gummy smiles happen: the big categories
The most helpful way to think about causes is to group them into four buckets: gum-related, tooth-related, lip-related, and jaw-related. Sometimes it’s just one. Often it’s a combination—like slightly short-looking teeth plus a lip that lifts a bit higher than average.
Understanding the category matters because treatments are very different. Gum reshaping won’t fix a jaw growth pattern, and orthodontics won’t change a hyperactive upper lip on its own. Getting the diagnosis right is what makes results look natural instead of “done.”
Below, we’ll break down each cause in plain language, including how it’s diagnosed and what options typically work best.
Cause #1: Extra gum tissue (or gums that sit too low)
When the gums cover more tooth than they should
Sometimes the teeth are normal-sized, but the gums cover too much of them. This can happen if gum tissue is naturally thick, if there’s inflammation, or if the gums never fully “receded” to their ideal position after the teeth erupted.
People often describe this as “my teeth look tiny,” even though the tooth underneath is a normal length. In these cases, the fix is often focused on the gumline—not the teeth.
Diagnosis usually involves measuring the clinical crown (the part of the tooth you see) and comparing it with expected proportions, plus checking the position of the bone underneath. That last part is important because you can only reshape gums safely if the underlying bone allows it.
Options that can help
One common solution is gum contouring (sometimes called gingivectomy or gingival sculpting). This removes a small amount of gum tissue to reveal more natural tooth surface. When done conservatively, it can make teeth look longer and more symmetrical without changing the teeth themselves.
If the bone level is too close to the new gumline, a procedure called crown lengthening may be recommended. That can involve reshaping both gum and a little bone to create a stable, healthy position for the gumline long-term.
For anyone worried about discomfort: these procedures are typically done with local anesthetic, and many people are surprised by how manageable recovery is—especially when the plan is conservative and the tissue is healthy.
Cause #2: Altered passive eruption (a very common, very fixable culprit)
What it is and why it makes teeth look short
Altered passive eruption is a fancy term for a simple idea: after teeth come in, the gums are supposed to settle into a final position that shows the full height of the tooth crown. In some people, the gums stay a bit too far down on the tooth, even into adulthood.
This is one of the most common reasons people feel like their smile is “all gums and no teeth.” It’s also one of the most satisfying to treat because the underlying teeth are often already a great shape—just hidden.
A dentist will look at tooth proportions, gum symmetry, and the relationship between the gumline and the bone. If the bone is positioned normally, treatment can be simpler; if not, crown lengthening may be needed for a stable result.
How it’s typically treated
When the bone is in a favorable position, a gum recontouring procedure can reveal more tooth surface and create a cleaner gumline. The goal isn’t to expose as much tooth as possible—it’s to expose the right amount for balance and health.
If the bone is too high, crown lengthening can reposition the gumline and bone so the gums don’t “rebound” back down. This is especially important if you’re considering veneers or other cosmetic work later, because stable gum levels help restorations look consistent over time.
Many people combine this with minor cosmetic tweaks—like smoothing uneven edges or whitening—because once the tooth is more visible, small details become more noticeable (in a good way).
Cause #3: A hyperactive upper lip (the “lip lifts too high” situation)
How lip movement changes what you see
Some people have normal teeth and normal gum levels, but when they smile, the upper lip lifts higher than average. That extra lift exposes more gum tissue, creating the gummy look.
This is often genetic and can be more noticeable in big, joyful smiles (which is why it shows up in photos). It’s not a “problem” with the lip—just a movement pattern that affects smile display.
Diagnosis is usually done by observing your smile at rest, during a natural smile, and during a full smile. A good clinician will also look at lip length, because a shorter upper lip can amplify the effect.
Ways to reduce gum show from lip movement
One popular option is neuromodulator injections (often known by brand names like Botox), placed strategically to reduce how strongly the upper lip elevates. The goal is subtle: soften the lift, not freeze your expression.
Results are temporary and typically last a few months, which can be a plus if you want to “test drive” the look before considering anything more permanent.
For people who want a longer-term change, a lip repositioning procedure may be considered. This is a surgical approach that limits how far the lip can rise by adjusting the tissue inside the upper lip. It’s not for everyone, but it can be effective in the right case.
Cause #4: Tooth wear, tooth shape, and the illusion of small teeth
How worn teeth can make gums look bigger
Sometimes the gums aren’t the main issue at all—the teeth are. If the front teeth have worn down over time (from grinding, clenching, or an edge-to-edge bite), they can look shorter. When teeth look shorter, the gums look more prominent by comparison.
This is especially common in adults who’ve had years of nighttime grinding or who have a bite pattern that puts extra stress on the front teeth. You may also notice chipping, flattening, or a “see-through” look at the edges.
In these cases, simply trimming gum tissue won’t solve the core issue. You may need to rebuild the tooth length, adjust the bite, or both, to restore balance.
Options to restore proportion
Depending on the situation, bonding (tooth-colored composite) can add length and refine shape in a conservative way. It’s often a great first step because it’s reversible and doesn’t require much tooth reduction.
Veneers or crowns can be considered when more durability or a bigger shape change is needed—especially if the teeth are already heavily restored or weakened. The key is planning: the final tooth length should suit your face and lip position, not just a “standard” smile template.
And if grinding is part of the story, a night guard or bite therapy is usually part of the long-term plan. Otherwise, even a beautiful result can chip or wear down again.
Cause #5: Jaw position and vertical maxillary excess
When the upper jaw sits lower than average
In some people, the upper jaw (maxilla) has grown in a way that shows more gum tissue. This is often called vertical maxillary excess. It can range from mild to more pronounced, and it’s one of the reasons gummy smiles can be harder to “quick fix.”
Signs can include a longer-looking midface, more gum show across many teeth (not just the front two), and sometimes a bite that’s open or uneven. This is where orthodontic and surgical opinions can be helpful, especially if you want a significant change.
A dentist may use photos, measurements, and imaging to assess how much of the gum show is coming from jaw position versus gum or lip factors.
Treatment paths for jaw-related gummy smiles
Orthodontics can help in certain cases by intruding (moving upward) the front teeth, especially with modern techniques like temporary anchorage devices (TADs). This can reduce gum show without surgery for some patients, depending on anatomy and goals.
For more significant vertical maxillary excess, orthognathic surgery (jaw surgery) is the most definitive option. It’s a bigger commitment, but it can create dramatic, stable facial and smile changes that other methods can’t fully match.
Many people choose a middle ground: a combination of orthodontics, minor gum reshaping, and/or lip treatment to get a noticeable improvement without pursuing surgery. The “best” choice is the one that fits your comfort level and timeline.
How a dentist figures out what’s really causing your gummy smile
Because there are multiple causes, a good assessment is part measurement and part art. Expect your dentist to look at your smile at rest, in speech, and in a natural laugh. They may take photos or short videos because smiles are dynamic—what happens in a split second matters.
They’ll also evaluate tooth proportions (width-to-length ratios), gum symmetry, and the health of the gum tissue. If gums are inflamed, the first step might be cleaning and improving home care, because swollen gums can exaggerate gum display.
In many cases, imaging helps confirm the underlying bone level and tooth position. That’s what keeps treatment safe and predictable—especially for procedures like crown lengthening where stability matters.
Gum contouring and crown lengthening: what to expect day-to-day
What the appointment feels like
Most gum reshaping procedures are done with local anesthetic, so you’re numb in the area being treated. You’ll feel pressure and movement, but not sharp pain. The appointment length depends on how many teeth are involved and whether bone reshaping is needed.
Afterward, the gums can feel tender, similar to a scraped knee sensation, especially when eating or brushing. Many people manage with over-the-counter pain relief and soft foods for a few days.
If you’re someone who gets anxious about dental visits, it’s completely fair to ask about comfort options. Dentistry has come a long way in making procedures feel calm and controlled.
Healing and timing for final results
You’ll usually notice an immediate difference in tooth display, but the final look takes time because gum tissue settles gradually. Mild swelling early on is normal, and the gumline can refine for weeks.
If you’re planning cosmetic restorations like veneers, timing matters. Your dentist may recommend waiting a certain period so the gumline is stable before finalizing restorations—this helps the edges look seamless.
Good home care during healing is important, but it should be gentle. Your dental team will typically give specific instructions for brushing, rinsing, and what foods to avoid.
Orthodontics for gummy smiles: not just for crooked teeth
How tooth movement can reduce gum show
Orthodontics can be surprisingly helpful for gummy smiles when tooth position is part of the cause. If the front teeth are over-erupted (sitting too low), moving them slightly upward can reduce the amount of gum that shows when you smile.
This isn’t always possible with basic aligners alone, but many orthodontic plans can incorporate attachments, elastics, or anchorage tools to achieve vertical movement.
Orthodontics also helps when the bite contributes to tooth wear. By improving how the teeth meet, you can protect any cosmetic improvements you make later.
What to consider before starting
Orthodontic treatment takes time, so it’s usually chosen when you want broader improvements—like alignment, bite function, and aesthetics together. If your teeth are already straight and your main concern is gum display, you might prefer a more targeted approach.
That said, a short orthodontic plan can sometimes create a big improvement in smile balance, especially when combined with small gum or cosmetic adjustments afterward.
It’s also okay to ask for a “staged” plan: what can be done now for noticeable improvement, and what could be done later if you want to go further.
Cosmetic dentistry options that can complement gummy smile treatment
Once gum levels and tooth display are in a better place, cosmetic finishing touches can make the smile feel complete. Whitening, bonding, veneers, and subtle reshaping can refine symmetry and brightness so the smile looks intentional rather than “fixed.”
If you’re exploring these kinds of enhancements, it helps to look at a menu of cosmetic dental services so you can match the option to your goals and budget. Some people want a natural refresh; others want a more noticeable makeover. Both are valid.
The key is sequencing: gum and orthodontic changes usually come before final cosmetic restorations. That way, any bonding or veneers are designed to fit the final gumline and tooth position, not a temporary stage.
When gum show is connected to overall dental health
Inflammation, bleeding gums, and “puffy” tissue
Gums that are irritated or inflamed can look fuller and sit slightly lower on the teeth, creating more gum display. If you notice bleeding when brushing, persistent puffiness, or tenderness, it’s worth addressing gum health first.
A professional cleaning, improved brushing and flossing technique, and sometimes targeted periodontal care can reduce swelling and reveal a more natural gumline. This can subtly improve a gummy smile even before any cosmetic procedure.
Plus, healthy gums are the foundation for any aesthetic work. Even the best cosmetic dentistry won’t look right if the gums are inflamed or uneven due to disease.
Tooth pain, infection, and timing cosmetic work
If you’re considering gummy smile treatment but you also have tooth pain, old fillings failing, or signs of infection, those issues should be handled first. Cosmetic changes sit on top of health—they don’t replace it.
Many people worry that endodontic treatment will be miserable, but modern techniques can make painless root canals a realistic expectation for most patients. Addressing infection early protects your tooth and helps you move forward confidently with cosmetic planning.
Once everything is stable—no active decay, no gum inflammation, no unresolved bite issues—your dentist can design gummy smile improvements that last and look consistent.
Gummy smiles and missing teeth: how replacement choices affect the look
Why tooth replacement can change your smile line
When teeth are missing—especially multiple teeth—your bite and lip support can change over time. The upper lip may sit differently, and the way you smile can shift. In some cases, gum show becomes more noticeable; in others, the smile can look “collapsed” with less tooth display.
Replacing missing teeth isn’t only about chewing. It can also restore facial support and help your smile look more balanced. The right replacement can subtly influence how much gum and tooth show when you grin.
This is where a comprehensive approach matters: instead of treating gum show in isolation, it’s often better to look at the whole smile system—teeth, gums, bite, and facial support.
Dentures and partials as part of a smile plan
If dentures or partials are part of your situation, comfort and fit are everything. A well-designed appliance supports your lips and cheeks and helps your smile look natural in motion, not just in a still photo.
For people exploring replacement options, it’s helpful to learn about comfortable dentures and how modern materials and better impressions can improve both feel and aesthetics. When dentures fit well, you’re more likely to smile fully—and that confidence matters just as much as millimeters of gum show.
And if you’re combining denture work with gum reshaping or cosmetic treatment, make sure the plan is coordinated. The final smile line should be designed with the prosthetic in mind.
Choosing the right treatment: a practical way to decide
Start with what bothers you most
Some people are mainly bothered by uneven gums (one side higher than the other). Others feel like their teeth look too short. Others dislike how their lip lifts in photos. Your “main complaint” helps guide the first step.
It’s also worth thinking about how you want to look: natural and subtle, or a more noticeable transformation. The best gummy smile treatments are the ones that fit your personality—so you still feel like yourself.
Bring examples to your consultation if you can. A photo of your own smile that you like (and one you don’t) can be incredibly helpful for pinpointing what you’re reacting to.
Balance permanence, cost, and downtime
Treatments range from temporary (neuromodulators) to semi-permanent (bonding) to long-lasting (crown lengthening, orthodontics, surgery). There isn’t a single “best” option—just the best fit for your comfort level and timeline.
If you want minimal downtime, you might start with whitening, bonding, or a small gum contour. If you want a big structural change, orthodontics or surgery may be worth considering.
A thoughtful plan often uses steps: do the simplest, most conservative improvement first, then reassess. Many people find that one or two targeted changes are enough to love their smile.
What results look like when they’re done well
The most successful gummy smile fixes don’t scream “I had work done.” They look like your natural smile—just more balanced. Teeth look proportionate. Gumlines look even. The smile line follows the curve of your lower lip in a relaxed way.
Another sign of a good result is that it looks good in motion. A smile isn’t a static pose; it changes when you laugh, talk, and turn your head. Treatments that respect your facial dynamics tend to look the most natural.
If you’re evaluating before-and-after photos, look for realism: similar lighting, similar smile intensity, and results that still match the person’s face. Subtle improvements can be the most powerful because they boost confidence without changing your identity.
Questions worth asking at your consultation
If you’re planning to talk with a dentist or specialist about a gummy smile, here are a few questions that keep the conversation useful and personalized:
1) What’s the main cause in my case? Ask whether it’s gum, tooth, lip, jaw, or a combination—and how they can tell.
2) What are my options at different levels? For example: a conservative option, a moderate option, and a comprehensive option.
3) How stable are the results? Especially for gum procedures and orthodontics, you want to know what helps results last.
4) What’s the sequence? If you might want whitening, bonding, veneers, orthodontics, or gum reshaping, ask what order makes the most sense.
5) What will it look like when I smile naturally? It’s easy to plan for a posed smile; it’s more important to plan for your real smile.
A final reassurance if you’ve been hiding your smile
If you’ve been practicing “closed-lip smiles” or avoiding big laughs in photos, you’re not alone. A gummy smile can feel like the only thing people see—even though most people are simply noticing that you look happy.
The fix, when you want one, doesn’t have to be extreme. Sometimes it’s a small gum adjustment. Sometimes it’s reshaping worn edges. Sometimes it’s a temporary tweak to lip movement. And sometimes it’s a bigger plan. What matters is that you have options.
With the right diagnosis and a plan that fits your comfort level, a gummy smile is very often something you can improve in a way that still looks natural—like the best version of your own smile.