Is Gummy Smile Considered a Dental Problem or Just a Cosmetic Issue?

August 27, 2025

A gummy smile refers to the exposure of a significant amount of gum tissue when a person smiles, which can impact a person’s appearance and confidence. Gummy smile affects millions of children and adults worldwide. But is a gummy smile merely an aesthetic issue, or does it sometimes indicate an underlying dental problem? Here’s what you need to know.

What Constitutes a Gummy Smile?

Typically, a smile is considered gummy if more than 3 to 4 millimeters of gum tissue is visible above the upper teeth when smiling.

Several factors can contribute to this condition, including naturally short teeth that make the gums appear more prominent, a short or hypermobile upper lip that lifts too high when smiling, and gum tissue overgrowth [1].

It’s important to understand the cause of your gummy smile to determine the best treatment options, should you choose to pursue them.

When Is a Gummy Smile Considered a Dental Problem?

While a gummy smile is often seen as just an aesthetic issue, there are instances where it signals dental problems that need attention:

Difficulty with oral hygiene. In some cases, excess gum tissue can interfere with proper brushing and flossing, which can lead to plaque accumulation. Difficulty cleaning the teeth and gums can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Interference with restorative or cosmetic procedures. When gum tissue covers too much of the tooth surface, it may need to be surgically reduced before certain dental procedures like crowns or veneers can be properly fitted and sealed.

Medication-induced gingival hyperplasia. Certain medications (like some blood pressure medications, anti-seizure drugs, or immunosuppressants) can cause abnormal gum overgrowth that may require medical evaluation and treatment modification [2].

When Gummy Smile Is Merely a Cosmetic Issue

For many, a gummy smile is predominantly a cosmetic concern, impacting one’s confidence and appearance. However, this doesn’t mean that patients shouldn’t seek treatment. The impact on a person’s self-esteem and quality of life because of a gummy smile can be significant.

Fortunately, there are several options available for treating a gummy smile. Crown lengthening can remove excess gum tissue to expose more of the teeth and enhance the appearance of your smile. Laser gum contouring is a similar procedure that helps reshape the gum line for a more balanced appearance [3].

Botox is a non-invasive treatment option for patients whose gummy smile is caused by a hypermobile upper lip. Your dentist can help you understand your options and choose the best approach or combination of approaches for your specific smile.

Ask Your Dentist About Your Treatment Options

Whether a gummy smile is a problem comes down to your oral health and confidence. If you’re concerned about your gummy smile, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist to explore the best options for treatment. Contact your dentist today to schedule your consultation and start your journey to a more confident smile!