My gums seem to cover too much of my teeth when I smile, is there any way to fix this?

Gingivoplasty is a surgical procedure used to reshape gum tissue for functional or cosmetic purposes. It may also prevent cavities and improve chewing function. When the gum tissue is present and has grown over a huge part of a tooth, it can look like that tooth is too small or crooked. This can be fixed by gingivoplasty, by removing or reshaping the excess gum tissue.

You’ll be given a local anesthesia before the procedure starts. This will numb your gums so you won’t feel pain during the procedure. You can expect some tenderness and numbness afterward. Discomfort depends on how much of your gums had to be reshaped or removed. Post surgery medication may be prescribed.

The healing process can take up to 3-4 weeks for your gums to take on their normal color and up to 2 months for the tissue to fully heal.

If the procedure is performed solely for cosmetic purposes it may not be covered by your insurance. But it is usually covered if it is treating periodontal disease. Our office is available to discuss this procedure in full detail.