I Have a Gummy Smile: What Can I Do About It?

If your teeth appear short or your smile shows too much gum tissue, it can undermine your confidence. Many people with excessive gum display, or a gummy smile, feel like they have a “baby teeth” look, which can be frustrating and embarrassing.

At The Cosmetic Dentists of Austin in Austin, TX, we understand how your smile affects your self-esteem, and we’re here to help our patients achieve their dreams for their appearance. Laser gum contouring is a path to transformative results. Here’s what you should know about it.

Understanding Gummy Smiles

A gummy smile occurs when a large amount of gum tissue shows while smiling. This can make the teeth look much shorter than they really are.

Although the specific proportion of gum tissue showing for an ideal smile can vary by person, research shows that around 3mm of gum show generally creates a balanced, natural, and attractive smile. The amount of gum show varies with each person.

Gummy smiles may occur due to genetics, how your teeth erupted, medication, hormones, natural upper lip anatomy, or other factors.

In any case, you deserve to feel confident about your smile. We offer an innovative solution here at The Cosmetic Dentists of Austin: Laser gum contouring.

How Laser Gum Contouring Works

Laser gum contouring uses controlled light energy to precisely remove excess gum tissue and reshape your gum line into an attractive, natural contour. Some advantages of this approach are:

• Enhances Tooth Proportion: Removing excess gum tissue gives your teeth a more natural and proportionate look.
• Boosts Confidence: A balanced smile can improve your confidence and make you feel great about showing your teeth.
• Minimally Invasive: The laser precisely targets extra gum tissue without scalpels, meaning less discomfort and faster healing. It seals tissue as it works, minimizing bleeding so you don’t need stitches.
• Precision and Control: Contouring with a laser allows for smooth, even results.
• Immediate Improvement: Results are immediately visible, helping you see your new smile immediately.
• Short Treatment Plan: Just two visits to our Austin office to get your brand-new smile.
• Quick Recovery: Most people experience little discomfort and can resume normal activities shortly afterward.
• Virtually Painless: Local numbing medication (similar to what you get for a filling) keeps you comfortable.

We perform laser gum contouring in our spa-like office, where you can relax in a massage chair with a Tempur-Pedic® pillow during the procedure. Check out our smile gallery to see the power of laser gum contouring. 

Laser Gum Contouring in Austin, TX

If you’re ready to feel more confident about your smile, call The Cosmetic Dentists of Austin at 512-333-7777 to book your consultation. Our Austin, TX, team is here to help you get a bright, balanced smile.