Cosmetic Gum Procedures • Gummy Smile • Before & After
See how precise cosmetic gum procedures can improve smile balance, gum display, and overall facial harmony.
A gummy smile can make teeth appear short, uneven, or hidden by excess gum tissue. In this visual guide, Dr. Soma Lari explains how gummy smile correction may improve smile proportions using advanced periodontal and cosmetic gum techniques tailored to each patient’s anatomy.
A gummy smile occurs when too much gum tissue shows when you smile. This may happen because of excess gum coverage, altered tooth eruption, short-looking teeth, vertical upper jaw position, or upper-lip movement. The right treatment depends on identifying the cause.
For patients searching for gummy smile correction, gum contouring, or crown lengthening before and after, a periodontist can evaluate whether cosmetic gum procedures can create a more balanced and natural-looking smile.
Reshapes excess gum display so teeth and gums look more proportional.
Can make short-looking teeth appear longer and more symmetrical.
Creates a more even gumline using careful periodontal planning.
Helps patients feel more comfortable smiling, speaking, and taking photos.
Add 4–6 before and after images here. Use clear labels and keep captions short so visitors immediately understand the result.
Use a smile photo showing excess gingival display or short-looking teeth.
Use the corrected case showing improved gumline, tooth display, and smile proportion.
Use a case showing asymmetry, irregular tissue levels, or uneven crown display.
Use the corrected result showing more balanced gum architecture.
Treatment depends on the cause of the gummy smile and the patient’s desired cosmetic outcome.
Reshapes gum and bone to expose more natural tooth structure and improve smile proportion.
Refines uneven gum edges to create a smoother and more symmetrical gumline.
Reduces excessive gum display so teeth become the focus of the smile.
May help selected patients when excessive upper-lip movement contributes to gum display.
Helps evaluate tooth proportions, gum levels, and aesthetic goals before treatment.
Determines whether the cause is gum tissue, tooth eruption, bite, lip movement, or jaw anatomy.
Dr. Lari evaluates how much gum tissue shows when smiling and speaking.
Tooth length, shape, and visible crown structure are assessed.
When needed, gum and bone levels are planned for stable long-term results.
Before/after goals are reviewed so the final gumline looks natural.
Dr. Soma Lari is a board-certified periodontist with advanced training in periodontal surgery, cosmetic gum procedures, crown lengthening, gum contouring, and soft-tissue management. Her approach focuses on precision, natural aesthetics, and long-term gum health—not just quick cosmetic changes.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Soma Lari to find out which gummy smile correction option is right for your smile.
What causes a gummy smile?
A gummy smile may be caused by excess gum tissue, altered tooth eruption, a short upper lip, strong lip movement, jaw position, or a combination of factors.
Can a gummy smile be corrected without surgery?
In some cases, Botox may help if the cause is excessive upper-lip movement. Other cases may need gum contouring or crown lengthening.
What is crown lengthening?
Crown lengthening reshapes gum tissue and sometimes bone to expose more of the natural tooth structure.
Is gum contouring painful?
Most patients tolerate cosmetic gum procedures well with local anesthesia. Discomfort is usually manageable and depends on the extent of treatment.
How long does gummy smile correction take?
Timing depends on the treatment type and number of teeth involved. Some procedures are completed in one visit, while others require planning and follow-up.
Are results permanent?
Results can be long-lasting when the correct cause is treated and the gum and bone levels are properly planned.
Can gummy smile correction make teeth look bigger?
Yes. When excess gum tissue covers the teeth, treatment can reveal more natural tooth structure and improve proportions.
Will I need veneers after crown lengthening?
Not always. Some patients only need gum correction, while others may choose veneers or restorative treatment for additional aesthetic improvement.
Who should perform gummy smile correction?
A periodontist is trained in gum tissue, bone levels, and smile architecture, making them well-suited for cosmetic gum procedures.
Does insurance cover gummy smile correction?
Coverage depends on whether the procedure is cosmetic or medically necessary. Our office can help review PPO benefits and financing options.
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