What is a Gummy Smile ?
A gummy smile is when you smile and gum tissue is visible above the teeth. The more gum tissue you show the gummier your smile. It is normal to show about 1-2 mm of gum tissue above the teeth. There are several things that can result in a gummy smile, they include: a long upper jaw, hyperactive lip muscles, short upper lip, or excess gum tissue covering the teeth. We will only be discussing the excess gum tissue covering the teeth. Your dentist or periodontist can tell you what is the cause of your gummy smile. How do I know I have a Gummy Smile? If you show more than 2-3 mm of gum tissue above the teeth then you have a gummy smile. However, the most important thing to evaluate is the shape and length of your teeth. The average front tooth length is 10 millimeters or just less than 1/2 inch. If you have a gummy smile due to excess gum tissue covering your teeth then you likely have front teeth that are short and square shaped. If so, you are an excellent candidate for a gum lift proced
