Introduction 

Modern cosmopolitanism has convinced us that a gummy smile is a curse. While you are beautiful in your way, what if we tell you that modern dentistry has a scientific explanation, that is, the ”golden proportion”? This specifies what portion of gums to teeth; when one is beyond this proportion, you have a gummy smile, and to fix this, you need a Cosmetic Dentist in Newport Beach. So if you find that your upper gums steal the spotlight when you smile, you’re not without options. Dr. Smile is one of them. Let’s explore more in the following article. 

What Is a Gummy Smile?

An overview 

A captivating smile, as they say, is the hallmark of confidence, but for people with a gummy smile, it’s only self-consciousness that takes center stage. 

  • A gummy smile, or excessive gingival display, occurs when too much gum tissue is visible above the upper teeth when smiling. 
  • Anyone who deviates from the golden proportion has their smile considered “gummy” if more than 3–4 millimeters of gum tissue shows. 
  • Though it’s not a medical concern, it can affect self-esteem and how freely someone smiles.

One should seek professional help, like that of a  Cosmetic Dentist in Newport Beach. At Dr. Smile, we have a team that can help you to professional medical help. They are adept in the work they do, find the root cause of the issue and give you relevant suggestive sessions. 

Causes a Gummy Smile

Understanding the root cause is key to choosing the right treatment. Common causes include

  • This can be in genetics
  • Excess gum tissue covering the teeth
  • Short or worn-down teeth
  • A hyperactive upper lip that lifts too high when smiling
  • Abnormal jaw development or vertical maxillary excess
  • Genetics or medication-induced gum overgrowth

Each case is unique, which is why a personalized consultation with a Cosmetic Dentist in Newport Beach is essential.

Treatment Options for Gummy Smiles

Thanks to advancements in cosmetic dentistry, there are several effective ways to correct a gummy smile. Here’s a look at the most popular options:

1. Oral Surgery in Lomita

An oral surgery in Lomita or any place for that matter is popularly known as Laser Gum Contouring (Gingivectomy). Here is what you can expect from this cosmetic treatment

  • This minimally invasive procedure. 
  • It is executed by a Cosmetic Dentist in Newport Beach. 
  • Uses a dental laser to reshape and remove excess gum tissue. 
  • The process involves a scalpel and a laser. 
  • It’s quick, virtually painless, and offers immediate results with minimal downtime.

2. Crown Lengthening

If your teeth appear short due to excessive gum coverage, crown lengthening can expose more of the tooth’s surface. So here is what you can expect from this oral surgery in Lomita

  •  This may involve removing gum and bone tissue to create a more balanced smile.
  • The process further involves reshaping the underlying bone
  • Exposes more of the tooth 
  • Ideal for those cases where the gummy smile is caused by excessive gum tissue or a short tooth structure. 

3. Lip Repositioning Surgery

This is for patients with a hyperactive upper lip; this procedure lowers the lip’s resting position to reduce gum exposure when smiling. Let’s see how this process functions.

  • It involves making incisions in the mouth.
  • Since there is removal and insertion involved, our professional will ensure that you are given a Sedation Dentistry in Newport Beach. 
  • This restricts the movement of the muscles that lift the upper lip.
  • With the help of this procedure, you can reduce the depth of the vestibule, further restricting the muscles responsible for lifting the lip. 

4. Some other miscellaneous treatments include

A. Orthodontics

Braces or clear aligners can help reposition teeth and jaws to improve the gum-to-tooth ratio. In some cases, orthodontics alone can correct a gummy smile.

B. Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery)

  • In severe cases caused by jaw misalignment, oral surgery in Lomita or nearby areas may be recommended. 
  • This involves repositioning the upper jaw to reduce gum visibility to ease the pain. The dentist uses Sedation Dentistry in Newport Beach. Your comfort is always our priority. 

5. Botox Injections

  • A nonsurgical option for hyperactive lips, Botox can temporarily relax the muscles that lift the upper lip, reducing gum exposure.

Why Choose a Cosmetic Dentist in Newport Beach?

Newport Beach is home to some of the most advanced cosmetic dental practices in California. Whether you’re seeking subtle reshaping or a full smile makeover, a Cosmetic Dentist in Newport Beach offers:

  • State-of-the-art technology like laser dentistry and digital imaging
  • Customized treatment plans tailored to your facial structure and goals
  • Expertise in smile aesthetics, ensuring natural, harmonious results
  • Access to comprehensive care, including referrals for oral surgery in Lomita or dental implants in San Pedro if needed

The Consultation Process

Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation. Your dentist will:

1. Initial assessment

  • This is probably the first step, where you examine your teeth, gums, and jaw alignment.
  • Our Cosmetic Dentist in Newport Beach, Lomita, or San Pedro will then conduct a comprehensive dental examination. This might include a visual assessment of the gums and teeth. 
  • Makes digital X-rays to evaluate bone structure.  

2. A thorough diagnosis and treatment planning 

Based on the examination, our Cosmetic Dentist in Newport Beach will then diagnose the cause of the gummy smile. Now, the reasons could be anything—genetics, excessive gum tissue, a hypermobile upper lip or something that would be deciphered post-examination. 

3. Follow-up treatment 

  • This is probably the final level of treatment; it is here where you get to fix appointments for all the chosen procedures. 
  • You will monitor the progress and make any necessary adjustments to ensure optimal results. 
  • In some cases, follow-up appointments with a periodontist or orthodontist may be necessary, surpassing the expertise of a Cosmetic Dentist in Newport Beach. Whatever is done is for your betterment, so trust the process. 

Conclusion 

A gummy smile doesn’t have to hold you back. With the expertise of a Cosmetic Dentist in Newport Beach, you can achieve a smile that feels balanced, confident, and uniquely you. Whether you need a simple laser treatment or a more comprehensive approach involving oral surgery in Lomita or any other treatment mentioned above, the right team can guide you every step of the way. Ready to transform your smile? Book your consultation with Dr. Smile today—and let your confidence shine as brightly as your teeth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q.  Is gummy smile correction permanent?

Yes, most treatments like laser gum contouring and crown lengthening offer permanent results. However, Botox injections are temporary and typically last 3–6 months.

Q. Does gummy smile treatment hurt?

Most procedures are minimally invasive and performed under local anesthesia. Laser treatments, in particular, are gentle and require little to no recovery time.

Q. How much does it cost to fix a gummy smile?

Costs vary depending on the treatment. Laser gum contouring may range from $300–$1,000, while surgical options can be higher. Your Cosmetic Dentist in Newport Beach will provide a personalized quote.

Q. Can I combine gummy smile treatment with other procedures?

Absolutely. Many patients choose to pair gum contouring with veneers, whitening, or dental implants in San Pedro for a complete smile makeover.

Q. How do I know which treatment is right for me?

A consultation with a cosmetic dentist is the best way to determine the cause of your gummy smile and explore the most effective treatment options for your unique case.