Find the cause of excess gum display
A smile may show more gum because of tooth eruption patterns, tooth position, lip movement, or the relationship of the jaws. The same appearance can therefore require different treatment.
Examination guides the choice
Assessment includes tooth proportions, gum and bone relationships, periodontal health, lip movement, and facial proportions. Crown lengthening can expose additional tooth structure in selected cases, sometimes involving both gum and bone reshaping.
Not everyone needs gum removal
Orthodontic treatment, management of lip-related causes, or specialist jaw assessment may be more appropriate. Removing gum without understanding the underlying anatomy can create sensitivity, recession, or unstable results.
Plan the restoration sequence
When veneers or crowns are also proposed, the tissue response and healing period need to be considered before final margins are established.
Ask what causes your gum display, what alternatives exist, and how stability and maintenance will be assessed.