before-after-gummy-smile-surgery

Gummy smile simulation

89.00 $

We simulate various surgical procedures designed to correct a gummy smile—where the gums are overly exposed when smiling.
The photo retouching will depend on the technique recommended by your surgeon, which may involve the gums, the elevator muscles of the upper lip, or repositioning the upper jaw through osteotomy.

Common concerns include: Small teeth, Excessive gum display, Large or prominent gums, Gums visible when smiling, Unbalanced or awkward smile

Photo requirements:
Please provide a clear, front-facing photo, taken in good lighting, against a plain, light-colored background. Hair should be tied back and fully reveal your face.

Once your order is confirmed and payment completed, you’ll be able to upload your photo via a dedicated form.
Your personalized simulation will be sent to your email within 48 business hours.

What Is a Gummy Smile?

A gummy smile, also known as a “gummy grin“, occurs when too much gum tissue is visible above the upper teeth while smiling. This affects about 10% of the population and is twice as common in women as in men. Seeing up to 2 mm of gum in men and 3–4 mm in women is considered normal. A gummy smile is typically diagnosed when more than 4 mm of gum is exposed while smiling. Visible lower gums during a smile is extremely rare.

For many people, a gummy smile can be a source of self-consciousness, leading them to avoid smiling or speaking in public, and can affect self-esteem and spontaneity.
The goal of surgical correction is to restore a balanced, natural-looking smile—so patients can smile confidently without focusing on their gums.
If you’re not considering surgery, it’s worth noting that the appearance of a gummy smile may naturally diminish with age due to the gradual weakening of facial muscles.

What Causes a Gummy Smile?

There are several possible causes, which may occur individually or in combination—each requiring a different type of treatment:

  • Skeletal structure of the upper jaw (maxilla): The jaw may sit too low or extend too far forward
  • Short upper lip: The area between the nose and upper lip (nasolabial region) may be too tight
  • Excess gum tissue: The gums may extend too far down over the teeth
  • Overactive smile muscles: Excessive muscle contraction can pull the upper lip too high when smiling

During evaluation, the surgeon will assess the face both at rest and while smiling to determine the cause. If the distance between the upper lip and the top front teeth is more than 5 mm at rest, the issue is usually skeletal and may require jaw surgery.

Surgical Treatments for a Gummy Smile

1. Upper Jaw Bone Surgery (Le Fort I Osteotomy)

A maxillofacial surgeon cuts the upper jawbone (maxilla), removes a thin section, and repositions it higher, securing it with titanium plates and screws. This technique is called maxillary impaction.

  • It is the most invasive but also the most permanent solution.
  • Typically used when the gummy smile is due to skeletal overgrowth.

Side effects may include:

  • Wider nasal base
  • Thinner upper lip
  • Possible reduction in nasal airflow

2. Gingivoplasty or Gingivectomy

Performed by a dental surgeon, this procedure:

  • Removes excess gum tissue using a laser or scalpel
  • Reshapes the gumline for a more natural look

Is appropriate when the issue is excess gum coverage, not bone or muscle-related

Gum overgrowth can be caused by genetics, hormonal imbalances, or medications (e.g., for epilepsy or high blood pressure).

3. Upper Lip Lengthening

Non-surgical option (Physical therapy):
A physical therapist may guide you through exercises to relax and lengthen the upper lip. Results are minimal and unsuitable for moderate to severe cases.

Surgical option:
An incision is made on the inside of the mouth to loosen the upper lip, allowing it to sit lower. The scar is hidden and results are subtle but effective.

4. Muscle Repositioning (Myotomy)

The surgeon partially severs the smile elevator muscles, reducing the upper lip’s ability to rise when smiling. This is ideal when gums are only visible during smiling—not at rest. It may also correct an asymmetrical smile

5. Injections (Temporary Effects)

Botulinum toxin (Botox) can relax the smile muscles and reduce how much the upper lip lifts. Hyaluronic acid fillers may plump the upper lip to cover more of the gums

Both treatments are non-permanent:

  • Botox lasts about 4–6 months
  • Hyaluronic acid lasts up to 12 months

Gummy smiles are sometimes associated with a recessed chin. In such cases, lip or jaw surgery may be combined with gummy smile correction to achieve better harmony.

No VAT applicable under Article 293 B of the French General Tax Code.

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