11 Alexander Ave, Belmont, MA 02478
(617) 484-3260
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Gummy Smile Correction

Feel confident showing your smile. We offer effective orthodontic solutions to reduce excessive gum display and create a more balanced, harmonious smile you’ll love to share.

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Understanding Gummy Smiles

A gummy smile occurs when more than 3-4 millimeters of gum tissue shows above your upper teeth when you smile. While not a health concern, many people feel self-conscious about excessive gum display.

Common Concern

Gummy smiles affect about 10-15% of the population and can impact confidence in social and professional settings.
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Multiple Causes

Can result from jaw positioning, tooth eruption patterns, lip movement, or gum tissue characteristics—each requiring different solutions.

Treatable

Modern orthodontic techniques can effectively reduce gum display and create a more balanced, aesthetically pleasing smile.

What Causes a Gummy Smile?

Understanding the cause helps us determine the most effective treatment approach.

Skeletal Factors

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Vertical Maxillary Excess:

Upper jaw is too long vertically, causing excess gum display

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Jaw Position:

Upper jaw positioned too far forward relative to face

Dental Factors

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Altered Tooth Eruption:

Teeth didn't erupt fully, covered by excess gum tissue

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Short Teeth:

Teeth appear short due to wear or genetics

Soft Tissue Factors

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Gingival Hyperplasia:

Excessive or overgrown gum tissue

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Gum Position:

Gum line sits too low on the teeth

Muscular Factors

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Hyperactive Upper Lip:

Lip lifts too high when smiling, exposing more gum

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Short Upper Lip:

Doesn't adequately cover gums when smiling

Treatment Solutions

We offer several approaches to reduce gummy smile, often combining methods for optimal results.

Orthodontic Intrusion

Best for skeletal causes

Using temporary anchorage devices (TADs) or specialized mechanics, we can move the upper teeth and supporting bone upward, reducing gum display. This is often the most conservative and effective option for gummy smiles caused by vertical maxillary excess.

Advantages

  • Non-surgical option
  • Predictable, lasting results
  • Addresses underlying skeletal issue

    What to Expect

    • Treatment time: 12-24 months
    • Uses braces with TADs
    • Stable, long-term correction

      Combination Orthodontic-Surgical Approach

      For severe cases

      In cases of significant vertical maxillary excess, we may work with an oral surgeon to combine orthodontic treatment with jaw surgery (Le Fort I osteotomy) to reposition the upper jaw. This provides the most dramatic correction for severe gummy smiles.

      Best For

      • Severe gummy smile (5mm+ gum display)
      • Significant jaw length discrepancy
      • Combined with other bite issues

        What to Expect

        • Dramatic gum display reduction
        • Improved facial balance
        • Permanent, stable correction

          Coordinated Care with Other Specialists

          Comprehensive treatment

          We often coordinate with other dental specialists to achieve optimal results:
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          Periodontist:

          Crown lengthening or gum recontouring to reshape gum tissue

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          Cosmetic Dentist:

          Veneers or bonding to adjust tooth proportions if needed

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          Plastic Surgeon:

          Lip repositioning surgery for hyperactive lip muscle

          Transform Your Confidence

          Correcting a gummy smile can have profound effects on self-esteem and quality of life.

          Boosted Confidence

          Feel comfortable smiling freely in photos, social situations, and professional settings.

          Balanced Aesthetics

          Create harmonious proportions between teeth, gums, and lips for a naturally beautiful smile..

          Photo-Ready Smile

          Love how you look in pictures and videos without feeling self-conscious about your smile.

          Professional Impact

          Project confidence in career and social interactions with a smile you’re proud to share.

          Your Journey to a Confident Smile

          1

          Evaluation

          Comprehensive exam to determine the cause of your gummy smile and best treatment approach.

          2

          Custom Plan

          Personalized treatment strategy with digital simulations showing your predicted results.

          3

          Treatment

          Execute your personalized plan using orthodontics, surgery, or combination approaches.

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          Smile Reveal

          Unveil your new, balanced smile and enjoy the confidence it brings!

          Common Questions

          How much gum showing is too much?

          Generally, showing 2-3mm of gum tissue when smiling is considered ideal. When 4mm or more of gum displays, it’s often considered a gummy smile. However, treatment is a personal choice based on your aesthetic goals..

          Is orthodontic treatment alone enough?

          In many cases, yes! Orthodontic intrusion with TADs can reduce gum display by 2-4mm without surgery. However, the best approach depends on the underlying cause. We’ll evaluate your specific situation and recommend the most effective, conservative option.

          Will my gummy smile come back after treatment?

          When treated with orthodontics or surgery, results are typically permanent with proper retention. We’ll provide retainers to maintain tooth positions and ensure lasting results.

          Does insurance cover gummy smile correction?

          Coverage varies by plan. If orthodontic treatment is used, it may be covered by dental insurance. Surgical procedures may be covered by medical insurance if deemed medically necessary. We’ll help you understand your benefits and maximize coverage.

          How long does treatment take?

          Orthodontic correction typically takes 12-24 months. If surgery is needed, the entire process including pre- and post-surgical orthodontics may take 18-36 months. We’ll provide a detailed timeline during your consultation.

          Love Your Smile Again

          Discover how we can create the balanced, confident smile you’ve always wanted. Schedule your free consultation to explore your options.

          Schedule Free Consultation$Contact US$

          Call us at (617) 484-3260 or visit us at 11 Alexander Ave, Belmont, MA 02478