Gummy Smile Surgery

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Gummy smile surgery (a.k.a. a gingivectomy) is a cosmetic procedure to reduce gum tissue and enhance the appearance of the smile.

Gummy Smile Surgery Overview - 749

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The Skinny


Average Recovery

6 weeks

Permanence

Permanent

Application

Surgical Procedure

Surgical

Yes

Cost

$300 - $8000

The Specifics


What is a gummy smile surgery?

Gummy smile surgery (a.k.a. gingivectomy) is a cosmetic dental procedure to reduce the volume and appearance of excessive gum tissue, especially on the front teeth. Gummy smile surgery can also help to enhance the appearance of overly small teeth by creating crown lengthening. Gummy smile treatments are considered cosmetic dentistry for excessive gingival display and gum contouring.

What cosmetic concerns does a gummy smile surgery procedure treat?

  1. Damaged Teeth & Gums: Removal of excess gum tissue, and possible reshaping of the upper jaw bone in gummy smile surgery, enhances the smile and appearance of the upper lip and teeth.

Who is the ideal candidate for a gummy smile surgery procedure?

The ideal candidate for a gummy smile surgery is in generally good health, and has not had prior teeth restoration work (such as dental implants, crowns, or porcelain Veneers). Gummy smile surgery is not recommended for those with tooth rot, poor dental health, or bleeding disorders.

What is the average recovery associated with a gummy smile surgery procedure?

Recovery time following a gummy smile surgery is a few weeks. Limitations on diet persist for two weeks as does restriction on regular oral care. Most patients return to work a few days after the procedure. Complete healing of the gums can take up to three months.

What are the potential side effects of a gummy smile surgery procedure?

Possible side effects following a gummy smile surgery include tooth rot, risk of teeth loosening and loss over time, pain, swelling, bleeding, and infection.

What can someone expect from the results of a gummy smile surgery procedure?

A gummy smile surgery produces immediately noticeable improvements to the appearance of the teeth, oral cavity, and smile. If the underlying jaw bone is not altered, the gums may grow back.

What is the average cost of a gummy smile surgery procedure?


A gummy smile surgery procedure can cost anywhere from $300 to $8,000. The actual cost of a gummy smile surgery is dependent upon location, board certified facial plastic surgeon, and length and involvement of the plastic surgery.

thumbs-upPros

  • Permanent
  • Symmetrical Smile
  • Reduce Tooth Decay
  • Quick Procedure

thumbs-downCons

  • Recurrence

Invasiveness Score

1
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5
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10

Invasiveness is graded based on factors such as anesthesia practices, incisions, and recovery notes common to this procedure.

What to Expect


A gummy smile surgery reduces the amount of gum showing when a patient smiles. Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after gummy smile surgery.

The Takeaway


A gummy smile surgery is a cosmetic dentistry procedure for a smile makeover through alterations to gum tissue, the gum line, and possibly the upper jaw bone. A gummy smile correction can create a more aesthetically pleasing smile.

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Source List

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AEDIT uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

  1. Francesco Cairo Periodontal plastic surgery of gingival recessions at single and multiple teeth PubMed.gov; 2017-10-02
  2. Medline Plus Malocclusion of Teeth MedlinePlus.gov
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