Gummy Smile Treatment in Connolly

Connolly Dental is a dental clinic in the Connolly suburb of Perth that offers gummy smile treatment for patients seeking to reduce gum visibility when smiling.

What is a Gummy Smile?

A gummy smile, medically known as excessive gingival display, occurs when a significant amount of gum tissue is visible above the upper teeth when smiling. This is a normal anatomical variation that affects approximately 10-25% of the population.

The amount of gum tissue visible when smiling varies naturally between individuals based on factors including:

Lip mobility and muscle activity
Tooth position and eruption patterns
Gum tissue thickness and contour
Facial bone structure and proportions

What Contributes to a Gummy Smile?

Gummy smile appearance results from various anatomical and developmental factors. Common contributing factors include:

Tooth eruption patterns – Teeth may remain partially covered by gum tissue, affecting their visible length
Tooth and gum proportions – Individual variations in tooth size relative to gum tissue based on genetics or natural development
Lip anatomy and mobility – Variations in lip length, muscle activity, or movement patterns that affect gum visibility when smiling
Gum tissue characteristics – Natural differences in gum tissue thickness, contour, or coverage patterns
Jaw and facial bone structure – Individual skeletal development patterns that influence the relationship between teeth, gums, and lips.

treatment options for a gummy Smile

Treatment approaches depend on individual anatomical factors and the underlying characteristics contributing to gum visibility. Dr Lily Taheri offers several treatment options at The Applecross Dentist:

Laser Gum Contouring

Laser technology can be used to reshape gum tissue and modify the gum line. This procedure involves using soft tissue laser equipment to adjust gum contours. As with any surgical procedure, discomfort, swelling, and healing time should be expected.

Porcelain Veneers or Dental Crowns

Custom-made restorations can modify tooth proportions and change the relationship between teeth and gum tissue. These treatments involve preparing the existing teeth and placing permanent restorations.

Orthodontic Treatment with Invisalign

When gum visibility relates to tooth or jaw positioning, orthodontic treatment may help modify the bite relationship and tooth positions. This approach addresses underlying structural factors through gradual tooth movement.

Treatment selection considerations:

Individual anatomical assessment required
Multiple approaches may be combined
Not all patients are suitable for all treatments
Comprehensive consultation needed to determine appropriate options

Individual treatment suitability, outcomes, healing experiences, and results vary significantly based on anatomical factors, healing response, and individual circumstances. All treatments carry risks including discomfort, complications, and the possibility of unsatisfactory results.

WHAT TO EXPECT

All cosmetic procedures begin with a comprehensive consultation. Dr Lily Taheri will assess your facial anatomy and smile characteristics using digital smile design technology to evaluate your individual situation.

During consultation, we will:

Examine your oral health and facial structure
Discuss your concerns and treatment goals
Explain suitable treatment options for your circumstances
Review potential risks, benefits, and realistic expectations
Provide information about costs and timelines

If you are suitable for treatment and choose to proceed, some procedures may be performed on the same day, while others require additional appointments for optimal planning and preparation.

Treatment planning considerations:

Not all patients are suitable for all treatment approaches
Some cases require multiple appointments or preliminary treatments
Healing time and treatment complexity vary between individuals

Individual consultation outcomes, treatment recommendations, suitability, and results vary significantly based on oral health, facial anatomy, treatment complexity, and individual circumstances.

Next steps – Book a Consultation

At your consultation we:

Review your goals and medical history
Examine your mouth and, if indicated, take 3D imaging
Explain appropriate options, risks/benefits and timelines
Provide a written, itemised plan for you to consider

Contact our Connolly reception to arrange a time that suits you.

Gummy Smile Treatment FAQs

Considering treatment for excessive gum display when smiling? Various treatment options are available to address this cosmetic concern depending on the underlying cause and individual circumstances. Below are answers to commonly asked questions about treatment approaches, timelines, and expectations.

Individual treatment experiences, outcomes, and suitability vary significantly based on gum tissue characteristics, facial anatomy, underlying causes, and healing response. A comprehensive consultation is required to assess your specific situation and discuss realistic expectations.

What treatment options are available for excessive gum display?

Treatment options depend on the underlying cause and may include:

Gum contouring (gingivectomy) to reshape gum tissue
Orthodontic treatment for tooth positioning issues
Crown lengthening procedures
Lip repositioning surgery in some cases

What should I expect regarding discomfort with gummy smile procedures?

Most procedures are performed under local anaesthesia. Post-treatment experiences may include:

Swelling and tenderness in the treatment area
Sensitivity during healing
Temporary changes in sensation
Bruising with some procedures

Pain management options and detailed aftercare instructions will be provided. Individual pain tolerance, healing experiences, and recovery times vary significantly between patients.

How much does gummy smile treatment cost in Perth?

Treatment costs vary depending on:

Specific procedures required
Treatment complexity and extent
Number of appointments needed
Individual case requirements

At The Applecross Dentist, we provide detailed cost estimates during consultation. Individual treatment costs vary based on specific needs and chosen treatment approaches.

Can Invisalign help with excessive gum display?

Invisalign may help address excessive gum display when the underlying cause is related to tooth positioning, such as:

Teeth positioned too high in the gum line
Bite issues affecting lip position
Orthodontic problems contributing to gum visibility

Not all cases of excessive gum display are suitable for orthodontic treatment alone. A comprehensive assessment determines if Invisalign is appropriate for your specific situation. Individual treatment suitability and outcomes vary significantly.

How long does gummy smile treatment take?

Treatment timelines vary by approach:

Gum contouring: Immediate visual changes, full healing 2-4 weeks
Orthodontic treatment: Several months to years depending on complexity
Crown lengthening: 6-8 weeks healing before final results

Individual healing times, treatment duration, and final results vary significantly based on treatment complexity, healing response, and individual factors.

What are the risks and limitations of gummy smile treatment?

Potential risks may include:

Infection or poor healing
Asymmetry or uneven results
Temporary or permanent changes in sensation
Need for additional procedures
Unsatisfactory aesthetic outcome
Gum recession or tooth sensitivity

Not all patients achieve their desired outcomes, and some may require additional treatments or experience complications. Individual risk levels and treatment success vary significantly based on anatomy, healing capacity, and treatment complexity.

COMPLIANCE, AUTHORSHIP & REVIEW

Authorship/Review: Content reviewed by Dr Lily (DEN0001820641), registered dentist – Last reviewed: 31 August 2025. Medical information disclaimer: This page provides general information and is not a diagnosis. You will receive personalised advice after an examination. You may wish to seek a second opinion. Images: Clinical images are of our own patients with consent for advertising use. Outcomes vary. Advertising notes: No testimonials, inducements or guarantees are used. Therapeutic devices are described neutrally and factually. Comments/reviews are disabled on this page.

Gummy Smile Treatment