Too much of my gums shows when I smile. Is there surgery to trim the gums?

Yes, a gingivectomy (gum contouring surgery) can improve it. Showing 3 mm or more of gum when you smile is called a gummy smile, and treatment depends on the cause. 1) If the gums cover too much of the teeth, a gingivectomy raises the gum line; 2) if the upper lip lifts excessively, botulinum toxin injection into the lip muscles can be considered; and 3) if the cause is skeletal, a different approach such as orthodontic treatment may be needed. A gingivectomy is done under local anesthesia and usually heals within 1 to 2 weeks. The exact cause can only be identified after an examination, so please come in for a consultation.