A gummy smile occurs when too much gum tissue shows above the upper teeth when you smile. While this condition doesn’t usually pose a health risk, it can make many people feel self-conscious about their appearance. In most cases, a gummy smile is the result of genetics, jaw position, or muscle movement rather than poor oral hygiene.
At Derksen Dentistry in Lansing, Michigan, our team provides several cosmetic and restorative options to help patients achieve a more balanced, confident smile. Whether your concern is mild or more noticeable, there’s a personalized treatment that can make a remarkable difference.
Common Causes of a Gummy Smile
Understanding what’s behind your gummy smile is the first step to finding the right solution.
Some of the most common causes include:
- Excess gum tissue that naturally covers more of your teeth than usual.
- Hyperactive upper lip muscles, which lift the lip higher when smiling.
- Small or short teeth, either due to genetics or natural wear.
- Overeruption of upper teeth, which can change the proportion between teeth and gums.
- Jawbone positioning, when the upper jaw extends downward slightly more than normal.
During your consultation at Derksen Dentistry, we’ll identify which of these factors contribute to your smile and recommend a treatment tailored to your goals.
Non-Surgical Gummy Smile Solutions
For many patients, non-surgical options can provide fast, natural-looking results with little to no downtime.
Botox for Gummy Smile
Botox is one of the simplest ways to reduce excessive gum display caused by hyperactive lip muscles. Small, precise injections relax the muscles that lift the upper lip too high, allowing your smile to appear softer and more balanced.
- Treatment takes only minutes
- No recovery time required
- Results typically last three to four months
Laser Gum Contouring (Gum Reshaping)
Laser gum contouring gently removes and reshapes excess gum tissue to reveal more of your natural tooth structure. This creates a more even gumline and makes teeth appear longer and more proportionate.
Because advanced dental lasers are used, this treatment offers:
- Minimal discomfort
- Little bleeding or swelling
- Faster healing compared to traditional methods
Orthodontic Treatment (When Appropriate)
If tooth position contributes to a gummy smile, orthodontic solutions such as braces or Invisalign® may help reposition teeth and improve the balance between teeth and gums. In some cases, orthodontic treatment can significantly reduce gum exposure while improving bite function.
Crown Lengthening — Now Available with Same-Day CEREC Crowns
Crown lengthening is a highly effective solution when teeth appear short or hidden beneath excess gum tissue. This procedure carefully reshapes the gumline to expose more of the natural tooth surface, improving both aesthetics and long-term oral health.
At Derksen Dentistry, crown lengthening can often be combined with CEREC same-day crown technology, allowing many patients to complete their treatment in a single visit.
Benefits include:
- Immediate cosmetic improvement
- Fewer appointments
- Faster results
- Long-lasting smile enhancement
When Specialist Care May Be Needed
In some rare or complex cases, a gummy smile may involve deeper skeletal or anatomical factors. While Derksen Dentistry does not perform jaw surgery or lip repositioning surgery, we are happy to coordinate referrals to trusted specialists when advanced care is medically necessary.
Every treatment plan begins with a thorough evaluation so patients receive the most appropriate, conservative, and effective care possible.
What to Expect After Treatment
Recovery depends on the treatment selected:
- Botox: No downtime, results appear within days
- Laser gum contouring: Mild tenderness for a few days, healing typically within one week
- Crown lengthening with same-day crowns: Minor soreness for several days, with fast cosmetic results
Our team provides detailed aftercare instructions and follow-up support to ensure smooth healing and lasting results.
Why Choose Derksen Dentistry in Lansing, MI
Derksen Dentistry blends advanced technology, precision, and personalized care to deliver beautiful, natural-looking smiles. Patients benefit from:
- Expertise in cosmetic dentistry and gum contouring
- Gentle laser-based procedures
- Same-day CEREC crowns for faster results
- Comfortable, patient-centered care
- Comprehensive dental services under one roof
Our goal is to help every patient feel confident, comfortable, and proud of their smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can a dentist fix a gummy smile without surgery?
Yes. Treatments like Botox or laser gum contouring can dramatically reduce gum visibility without surgery. - How long does Botox for a gummy smile last?
Results typically last three to four months, with quick touch-ups maintaining your new smile year-round. - Is laser gum contouring painful?
No. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and most patients report only mild sensitivity afterward. - How much does gummy smile treatment cost in Lansing, MI?
Costs vary by procedure type—from around $300 for Botox to $1,200–$3,000 for contouring or surgery. Derksen Dentistry provides clear, upfront estimates before treatment begins. - Are gummy smile results permanent?
Laser contouring and crown lengthening are permanent, while Botox offers temporary improvement that can be maintained with periodic visits.
Schedule Your Gummy Smile Consultation in Lansing
If your gums keep you from smiling confidently, you have options. Derksen Dentistry offers customized gummy smile treatments designed to bring natural balance and beauty back to your smile.
Call today or reach out online to schedule your cosmetic consultation at our Lansing office and start your journey toward a smile you love.