Focus
The gum line
Helps
Uneven or gummy smile
First
Healthy gums
Approach
Careful reshaping
Overview
Gum aesthetics focuses on how your gums frame your teeth. Uneven gum levels or a smile that shows a lot of gum can make teeth look short or out of balance.
Careful reshaping of the gum line can create a more even look. Your dentist first checks that your gums are healthy and finds the cause.
What to know
- Improves how the gums frame your teeth
- Can even up an uneven gum line
- May help a smile that shows a lot of gum
- Healthy gums come first
- Results depend on the cause and gum health
Common questions
What is a gummy smile?
It is when a lot of gum shows above the teeth when you smile, which can make teeth look short.
Can the gum line be evened up?
Often yes. Gentle reshaping can balance the gum levels once the cause is understood.
Is gum reshaping permanent?
Results are usually lasting, though it depends on the cause and keeping your gums healthy.
Will my gums be healthy first?
Yes. Any gum inflammation or disease is treated before cosmetic reshaping is considered.
Related topics
Smile design / smile makeover
Planning a set of changes to improve how your smile looks.
Crown lengthening
A small procedure to expose more tooth, for health or appearance.
Receding gums
Gums that pull back from the teeth, exposing more of the root.
Veneers
Thin shells bonded to the front of teeth to improve their look.
Dr Rick Iskandar · Reviewed June 2026