A 'gummy smile' shows more gum tissue than the teeth call for. At Rose Aesthetics we treat it precisely — with the lightest touch that produces a natural, durable result.
What causes a gummy smile
Excess gum show usually comes from one of three sources: a hyperactive upper lip, a short clinical crown that hides under gum tissue, or a combination of both. The right treatment depends on which cause is doing the work — and most cases are a blend.
How we treat it
For tissue-driven cases, we use a precise gingival recontouring technique to expose more of the natural tooth, often with no sutures and minimal recovery. For lip-driven cases, we work alongside your aesthetic provider to relax the upper lip subtly. Many smiles benefit from both, paired with porcelain veneers to lock in the new proportions.
Why proportion matters
Smile design is fundamentally a ratio problem. When the gums dominate, no amount of whitening or veneer artistry can pull the eye back to the teeth. Reducing the gum show gives the rest of the design room to breathe.
What the appointment is like
Most cases are completed in a single visit under local anesthesia. We use digital planning to map exactly how much tissue to remove, so the result is symmetrical and predictable. Healing is usually two to three weeks.
Who's a good candidate
Adults who feel their smile shows too much gum are usually good candidates, especially when paired with cosmetic concerns about tooth shape or color. Dr. Rosenborough screens carefully for periodontal health before recommending the procedure.