Condition Overview

Gummy Smile

A gummy smile is a common aesthetic concern where an excessive amount of gum tissue is visible above the teeth when smiling. While it doesn’t typically affect oral health, it can impact self-confidence and facial harmony.

At Dermasurge, we specialize in diagnosing the causes of a gummy smile and offering expert-led treatments to address it effectively. Dr. Hiba Injibar, a renowned dermatologist, combines her expertise with advanced cosmetic solutions to help patients achieve a more balanced and confident smile.

Symptoms

  • A gummy smile occurs when an excessive amount of gum tissue is visible above the upper teeth during smiling.
  • It often appears as a disproportionate display of gums, making teeth look shorter or uneven.
  • Genetic factors, such as hyperactive upper lip muscles or excessive gum tissue, are common causes.
  • Hormonal changes, certain medications, or abnormal tooth eruption can also contribute to its appearance.
  • The condition ranges from mild (slightly more gum visibility) to severe (a highly prominent gum display).
  • While not harmful, it can affect facial aesthetics and self-confidence.

causes

A gummy smile results from a combination of factors that affect the balance between gum tissue and teeth visibility. While often a cosmetic concern, understanding these causes helps in selecting the most effective treatment approach.

Excessive Gum Tissue
Some individuals naturally have an overgrowth of gum tissue (gingival hyperplasia), which covers more of the tooth surface, making the teeth appear shorter and the smile more “gummy.”

Hyperactive Upper Lip
When the upper lip muscle (levator labii superioris) is overactive, it raises the lip higher than normal during smiling, exposing more gum tissue than usual.

Altered Tooth Eruption
If teeth do not erupt fully or properly from the gums (a condition called delayed passive eruption), excess gum tissue remains covering part of the teeth, creating a gummy appearance.

Hormonal or Genetic Factors
Hormonal changes or genetic predisposition can influence gum tissue growth and lip movement, contributing to the development of a gummy smile.

Jaw Development Issues
Abnormal upper jaw (maxilla) growth, such as vertical maxillary excess, can cause the gums to appear more prominent when smiling.

Professional Treatments

Botox® for Gummy Smile relaxes hyperactive upper lip muscles, reducing excessive gum exposure when smiling for a more balanced appearance.

Laser Gum Contouring precisely reshapes and removes excess gum tissue, revealing more of the natural tooth structure for an aesthetically pleasing smile.

Orthodontic Treatments like braces or clear aligners can correct underlying jaw or tooth positioning issues that contribute to a gummy smile.

Surgical Crown Lengthening removes excess gum tissue and reshapes the gum line to create better tooth-to-gum proportions.

Dermal Fillers can be strategically placed to subtly modify lip movement and reduce gum display during smiling.

over 20 years of expertise

WHY CORRECT YOUR GUMMY SMILE AT DERMSURGE CLINIC?

Dr. Injibar, our highly skilled consultant dermatologist in London, brings over 20 years of expertise in creating natural, beautiful results using the latest cosmetic dermatology technologies.

Dr. Hiba Injibar is a renowned expert in cosmetic dermatology and has extensive experience in treating gummy smiles. She provides personalized solutions to help patients achieve a more balanced and confident smile.

Key Points About Gummy Smile Treatment:

Quick & Effective: Most treatments require little to no downtime.

Causes: Excessive gum display due to hyperactive upper lip muscles, altered tooth eruption, or jaw structure.

Treatment Options:

Botox®: Minimally invasive treatment to relax the upper lip muscles.

Laser Gum Contouring: Reshapes the gum line for a more aesthetic appearance.

Orthodontic or Surgical Corrections: For severe cases involving jaw alignment.

Reviews

Check out some of our reviews

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4.8
Based on 212 reviews
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Abir Chatila profile pictureAbir Chatila
14:54 19 Dec 25
I have been a patient of Dr. Hiba for several years, and each visit consistently reflects her exceptional level of care and professionalism. She always dedicates ample time and attention, ensuring a thorough understanding of my needs. Her expertise allows her to recommend the most appropriate treatments with impressive results every time. I particularly appreciate her patience and gentle technique, which makes each procedure comfortable. Dr. Hiba’s commitment to her patients truly sets her apart.
Megan Myers profile pictureMegan Myers
17:47 01 Nov 25
Dr. Hiba removed a dermal piercing for me and the experience was exceptional from start to finish. She was compassionate, kind, caring, and completely honest throughout the entire process. Her professionalism and attention to detail gave me full confidence in her care.

Her team was also outstanding and every staff member I interacted with was warm, supportive, and knowledgeable. The receptionist in particular went out of her way to help me and made the whole experience smooth and stress-free.

Highly recommend Dr. Hiba and her team for anyone looking for expert, considerate care.
m hol profile picturem hol
16:32 12 Sep 25
We have used Dermasurge for our two children and the level of service from all staff goes above and beyond. They are polite, personable and knowledgeable. The speed of service is also very good. We have used other dermatologists before and can note that the Dermasurge team are far better.
Beth Bonini profile pictureBeth Bonini
17:16 28 Aug 25
I had several seborrheic keratosis removed and one unusual skin growth excised and biopsied. The procedure was quick, painless and healed well. Dr Hiba and her staff were all friendly and kind and followed up quickly on my questions. I would use this dermatologist again.
Pekis Dom profile picturePekis Dom
08:58 02 Aug 25
Loved my experience with doctor Hiba, I started my treatment to great my skin focused on restoring volume, facial harmonization and preventing aging. It wasn’t painful at all, I’m very excited for the following treatments for my pigmentation and boost collagen, she has so many cutting edge lasers and technology that I can’t wait! ❤️
Jennifer Matta profile pictureJennifer Matta
13:48 25 Jul 25
I’ve been attending Dermasurge for the past 4 months for laser and Botox treatments. The staff are all very professional, knowledgeable, and helpful. An excellent TEAM!
Dr. Hiba is amazing, very professional and approachable. During my initial consultation Dr. Hiba provided clear advice and direction, regarding the treatment I was seeking. I felt supported and listened to. A treatment plan was drawn up and each treatment explained in detail.
My laser treatments were done by Manuela, who has been incredible. A top therapist, professional and so friendly. Thank you Manuela for the high standard of care you gave me!
I highly recommend Dr.Hiba and her team.
Yusuf profile pictureYusuf
19:55 12 Sep 24
Maha Nur profile pictureMaha Nur
22:19 05 Sep 24
Wesley Hendriks profile pictureWesley Hendriks
16:35 29 Aug 24
I was a bit nervous but guidance from the doc and nurses was amazing.
Amanda Fuller profile pictureAmanda Fuller
12:22 07 Aug 24
Dr Hiba Injibar is an absolute pleasure - not only made me feel welcome and comfortable but gave me options and confidence that we could resolve my issues. Highly recommend! The staff is lovely and super easy to work with as well.
Jon Heuer profile pictureJon Heuer
17:23 02 Aug 24
silvina paz profile picturesilvina paz
09:36 29 Jun 24
Everyone at this clinic is really nice and what I like most about Dr Hiba is that she did not try to sell me something, instead she listened to my concerns and recommended a treatment that had my best interests at heart. And i am very pleased with the results.
Paulina Porwollik profile picturePaulina Porwollik
15:05 17 Jun 24
I had acne in my twenties. Dr. Hiba did a great consultation and prescribed medication that successfully healed my acne. I feel so much more confident in my skin today and am super grateful for the treatment I received. Also, the whole team at Dermasurge is super lovely. Thank you, Dermasurge!
Sarah Over profile pictureSarah Over
21:15 19 Apr 24
My teenage daughter attended having suffered with bouts of regular breakouts which caused her significant concern and distress. Dr Hiba took the time to explain what was causing the problem and gave very pragmatic and honest advice about the treatment pathway. Less than a week later the results are already evident and my daughter; who only last week felt very low about her skin now has hope that she doesn’t need to suffer any longer.

Ridwana was also incredibly kind and understanding. She shared her own experiences with my daughter making her feel much more at easy.

The entire clinic has a calming yet professional atmosphere which is exactly how the clinical experience also felt.

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