Can Braces Fix a Gummy Smile?
A smile is one of the first things people notice, and it can make a huge difference in how confident you feel. But if your gums show more than you’d like when you smile, you might be dealing with what’s called a “gummy smile.” For some, it’s a minor aesthetic concern, but for others, it can affect self-esteem and make them more self-conscious in social situations. If you’re wondering whether braces can fix a gummy smile, here’s what you need to know.
Understanding the Gummy Smile
A gummy smile occurs when an excessive amount of gum tissue is visible above the upper teeth when smiling. While there isn’t a strict medical definition, most dental professionals consider it “gummy” if more than 2–3 millimeters of gum show. The reasons behind a gummy smile vary. Genetics often play a role, especially if you naturally have a higher upper jaw or shorter teeth. In other cases, it could be due to teeth that haven’t fully erupted, overgrown gum tissue, or even a hyperactive upper lip that rises more than usual when you smile.
Because there are multiple causes, the best treatment depends on the underlying reason for your gummy smile. That’s where a personalized evaluation by an orthodontist becomes crucial.
How Braces Can Help
Many people think braces are just for straightening crooked teeth, but orthodontic treatment can also help with gummy smiles, particularly when the issue is related to teeth alignment or jaw position. For instance, if your teeth haven’t fully erupted, braces can gradually move them into the correct position, revealing more of the tooth and reducing the appearance of gums.
Braces can also improve jaw alignment. If your upper jaw is slightly overdeveloped or positioned forward, braces, sometimes combined with other orthodontic devices, can shift the jaw into a more balanced position. This adjustment changes the way your teeth and gums are displayed when you smile. Additionally, braces can help correct bite issues, like an overbite, that contribute to excessive gum exposure. By realigning the bite, your teeth and lips sit more harmoniously, making your smile appear less gummy.
It’s important to understand that braces alone may not completely fix every gummy smile. When the cause is excessive gum tissue or a hyperactive upper lip, additional treatments may be necessary.
Complementary Treatments
Braces are often just one part of a broader treatment plan. For gummy smiles caused by too much gum tissue, a procedure called gum contouring can reshape the gums for a more balanced appearance. If a hyperactive upper lip is the culprit, some patients benefit from Botox injections or a minor lip repositioning procedure to limit how high the lip rises when smiling. In more severe cases involving jaw overgrowth, orthognathic surgery may be required, often in combination with braces for optimal results.
Ultimately, braces can address the dental and alignment components of a gummy smile, while these complementary treatments target soft tissue or jaw concerns. The result is a more proportional and confident smile.
Why Treating a Gummy Smile Matters
Correcting a gummy smile is not just about looks—it can have functional and emotional benefits. A more balanced smile can dramatically boost confidence, making social interactions and professional situations less stressful. Straightening your teeth with braces also improves oral hygiene, as properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, which reduces the risk of cavities and gum disease. And by correcting bite issues, braces can enhance chewing function and reduce wear on your teeth, preventing jaw strain and discomfort over time.
Even small improvements can make a big difference, and many patients report that addressing their gummy smile positively impacts their self-esteem and overall happiness.
Is Braces Treatment Right for You?
Deciding whether braces can fix your gummy smile starts with a professional evaluation. An orthodontist will examine your teeth, gums, bite, and jaw alignment to determine the best approach. During this consultation, they can explain which combination of braces and additional treatments—if any—will deliver the most effective and lasting results.
Because every smile is unique, what works for one person might not work for another. This is why a personalized treatment plan from a qualified orthodontist is essential.
Achieve a Confident Smile with Silver Lake Orthodontics
If you’ve been wondering whether braces can help your gummy smile, Silver Lake Orthodontics in Everett, WA, is ready to guide you. Our team works closely with patients to create customized treatment plans that balance aesthetics, function, and long-term dental health. With the right combination of orthodontic treatment and complementary procedures, achieving a confident, balanced smile is possible.
Schedule a consultation with an Orthodontist in Everett WA today and take the first step toward a smile you’ll love showing off. At Silver Lake Orthodontics, we’re here to make sure every smile looks—and feels—its best.