I Have a Gummy Smile, What Are My Options?

If you feel your gums show more than you would like when you smile, you are not alone. A gummy smile can make you feel self-conscious in photos or when meeting new people. The good news is that there are effective, gentle treatments to reshape your gum line and balance your smile. At Queensway Dental, we tailor plans to your goals, comfort, and timeline, so you can feel confident about every step.

What causes a gummy smile?

A gummy smile simply means more gum tissue is visible when you smile than feels right for you. Common reasons include:

• Extra gum tissue covering part of the tooth crowns
• Teeth that appear short due to the way they erupted
• A high lip line that lifts more of the gum when smiling
• Thin or uneven gum contours that draw the eye

Most cases are straightforward to improve with careful planning. The key is a proper diagnosis so we treat the true cause, not just the appearance.

What is gum contouring and how does it work?

Gum contouring, sometimes called a gum lift, is a precise reshaping of the gum line to reveal more of your natural tooth and create a more even, symmetrical smile. At Queensway Dental, we carry out gum contouring using careful measurements and gentle techniques designed to protect your teeth and gums.

Here is how it works in simple terms:

• Planning and design: We assess your smile while you are speaking and smiling, then map the ideal gum line relative to your lips, teeth, and facial features.
• Gentle shaping: Using specialist instruments, we conservatively recontour the soft tissue to the planned line. Where appropriate, we use local anaesthetic so you stay comfortable from start to finish.
• Finishing and healing: Shaped areas are smoothed to support natural healing. Most patients return to daily activities the same day, with only mild tenderness for a short time.

Your safety and comfort come first. If you are a nervous dental patient, we can discuss calming options such as conscious sedation, so the experience remains relaxed and in control.

I have a gummy smile, what are my options?

Every smile is unique. Depending on your goals and clinical findings, your dentist may recommend one or a combination of:

• Gum contouring or a gum lift to even the gum line and reveal more tooth surface
• Professional whitening to brighten newly balanced teeth for a clean, fresh finish
• Composite bonding to refine edges, close small gaps, or correct shape
• Porcelain veneers for longer-lasting shape and colour changes
• Orthodontic or functional adjustments in selected cases where tooth position or bite contributes to the appearance

We will only suggest what is necessary to achieve a natural, harmonious result. Many patients find gum contouring alone delivers the transformation they wanted, while others benefit from a small combination plan for the most balanced look.

What are the benefits of gum contouring or a gum lift?

Patients choose this treatment for several reasons:

• A more proportionate tooth-to-gum balance when smiling
• Better symmetry across front teeth
• Enhanced definition for veneers or bonding that follow
• Fast, predictable results with minimal downtime
• A natural look that complements your lips and facial features

When planned well, even a few millimetres of contour change can have a big aesthetic impact. Patients often tell us they feel more confident in photos and less focused on hiding their smile.

Can gum contouring be combined with other treatments, like veneers?

Yes, and it often creates the most harmonious outcome. Gum contouring sets the ideal frame, then we refine tooth colour and shape inside that frame. Common pairings include:

• Tooth whitening before any bonding or ceramic work, so your teeth match your chosen shade
• Composite bonding for subtle lengthening or reshaping after the gum lift
• Porcelain or zirconia veneers if you want more durable changes in shape or colour

When veneers are part of your plan, sequencing matters. We usually contour first, allow the gums to settle, then take precise records for veneers. This approach helps the final restorations sit perfectly within the new gum outline and avoids guesswork.

If you are exploring veneers, you can learn more about our approach to veneers, including how we combine them with soft tissue contouring for a balanced result.

What to expect at your gum contouring consultation

Your consultation is relaxed, thorough, and focused on your goals. Here is what typically happens:

• You share what you would like to change and any worries you have, including anxiety about dental treatment
• We examine your teeth, gums, and bite, and look at how your lip moves when you smile
• We take clinical photos and, if appropriate, digital scans to plan your new gum line
• We explain your options, show you what is possible, and outline a clear, step-by-step plan

You will leave with a personalised recommendation, an idea of timelines, aftercare, and costs. We also discuss ways to make your time with us comfortable, from gentle local anaesthetic to calming techniques. If you are anxious, ask about our dedicated support for nervous patients and sedation options.

Your treatment day at Queensway Dental

On the day, we begin by confirming the plan and answering any last questions. We gently numb the area if needed, then shape the gum tissue to the agreed design. Most patients feel only pressure and movement rather than pain. Treatment times vary with the number of teeth involved, though many cases are completed in a single appointment.

Aftercare is straightforward:

• Avoid very hot, spicy, or crunchy foods for a short period
• Keep the area clean with careful brushing and any mouthwash we recommend
• Expect minor tenderness, which usually settles quickly

If your plan includes further steps, such as whitening or bonding, we schedule these once healing has progressed.

Why choose Queensway Dental for a gum lift?

You are in experienced hands. We focus on minimally invasive techniques and natural-looking outcomes. Our team plans carefully, treats gently, and supports you at every stage, including those who feel nervous about dental care. If you would like to see how gum contouring fits within a complete smile plan, explore our tailored smile makeover approach.

If you are ready to talk through your options, book a friendly chat with our team. You can also read more about our service pages for gum contouring to understand suitability, process, and FAQs.

The bottom line

A gummy smile is common, and it is highly treatable. Gum contouring reshapes your gum line to reveal more tooth and restore balance, with quick recovery and natural results. It pairs well with whitening, bonding, or veneers when you want a full refresh. At Queensway Dental, your plan is personal to you, built around comfort and confidence at every step. If you are curious about what is possible, we would love to help you get started.

Back