Will Veneers Help My Gummy Smile?

If you have a naturally “gummy” smile, you’ve probably wondered whether there’s any way to change it. Learn when veneers are an effective treatment for a gummy smile and when other approaches may be more appropriate.

Do you have a “gummy” smile? This condition, in which a significant portion of your gums is visible, affects about 10% of the population. It’s not a medical problem, but many people with more noticeable gums feel self-conscious when smiling or speaking in public.

If you fall into this group, you’ve probably wondered how to address it with cosmetic dentistry. Are veneers the right choice, or should you opt for something else? The answer depends on the cause and severity of your gummy smile.

At SolidSMILES Dental in Lewisville, Texas, dentist Hiral Patel, DDS, regularly treats gummy smiles. Here, she explains what causes a gummy smile, how veneers may help, and when alternative treatments are a better solution.

What causes a gummy smile?

The most common cause of a gummy smile is genetics. Some people naturally have more gum tissue than others. Other factors that may lead to a gummy smile include:

Gingival hyperplasia, or gum overgrowth
Smaller-than-average teeth (microdontia)
A hyperactive upper lip that reveals more of your gum tissue
Jawbone or bite issues

Because each condition affects your gums differently, identifying the cause of your unique symptoms is crucial. After Dr. Patel makes a diagnosis, she can develop a personalized treatment plan.

How veneers work

Veneers are wafer-thin shells of porcelain or composite resin that Dr. Patel bonds to your front teeth. Once placed, they change your tooth shape, color, and size and improve your smile’s symmetry.

The treatment process typically occurs in two stages. During the first stage, Dr. Patel removes a thin layer of enamel, about one millimeter thick, from each tooth and takes impressions. She sends your impressions to a dental lab that creates a set of custom veneers.

After your veneers are made, you return to our office for the second stage, where Dr. Patel bonds them to your teeth.

When veneers can help a gummy smile

Because we apply veneers directly to the teeth, they’re most effective for people whose gummy smiles are caused by smaller-than-average or worn-down teeth. Veneers may also help if your smile is only slightly gummy, as reshaping your teeth can help mask some of the excess gum tissue.

Veneers are never a complete fix for gummy smiles. If Dr. Patel determines you could benefit, she may also recommend other complementary treatments to enhance your results.

Alternative treatments for a gummy smile

Since several factors can cause a gummy smile, treatment often involves multiple approaches. Depending on your needs, Dr. Patel may suggest:

Gum contouring or laser gum reshaping
Botox® injections for hyperactive lips
Orthodontic treatment with Invisalign®
Jaw surgery if your symptoms are severe

The best way to know which option is right for you is to undergo a comprehensive oral exam. After reviewing your dental records, performing an oral exam, and taking dental X-rays, Dr. Patel can determine the best course of action.

Explore treatments for a gummy smile

If you’re tired of hiding your smile due to excess gum tissue, we can help. Whether you’re a candidate for veneers or something else, treatment is available. To make an appointment, call SolidSMILES Dental today or book your visit online.