Gummy Smile Correction Portland, OR
 A smile is one of the first things people notice, and for many patients, an excess of visible gum tissue can make an otherwise beautiful smile feel less confident.
If you find yourself covering your mouth when you laugh or avoiding photos altogether, gummy smile treatment at West End Dental may be the solution you've been looking for.
With the right approach, it's possible to reveal more of your natural tooth structure and create a smile that feels balanced and proportionate.
What Causes a Gummy Smile?
A gummy smile happens when a disproportionate amount of gum tissue shows above the upper teeth when you smile. This can stem from a few different sources, and identifying the underlying cause is the first step toward the right treatment plan.
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Excess Gum Tissue: Gum tissue that covers more of the tooth's surface than average, sometimes called a delayed passive eruption.
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Short Upper Lip: A lip that naturally rises higher during a smile, exposing more gum tissue than usual.
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Hyperactive Lip Muscle: A stronger-than-average muscle pull that lifts the lip further above the gumline.
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Jawbone Positioning: An upper jaw that has grown slightly further forward or downward than average, affecting how much gum shows.
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Tooth Size: Teeth that appear smaller relative to the surrounding gum tissue. |
Once we understand which of these factors is contributing to your smile, we can recommend an approach tailored specifically to you.
 Treatment Options for a More Balanced Smile in Portland, OR
There isn't a one-size-fits-all answer to a gummy smile, which is why we take time to evaluate your bite, lip movement, and gum tissue before recommending a path forward.
Depending on the cause, gummy smile correction may involve gentle reshaping of the gumline to reveal more of the natural tooth, adjustments to how the lip and gum interact during a smile, or coordination with orthodontic care if tooth position is playing a role.
Each plan is built around your goals, your comfort, and the results you want to see.
A Convenient Downtown Location for Personalized Care
Patients throughout the metro area trust our team to address their concerns with a thoughtful, conservative approach.
We start with a conversation about what bothers you most about your smile, walk through the imaging and evaluation together, and explain exactly what to expect before any treatment begins.
Our goal is always a natural-looking result that still looks and feels like you.
FAQs
Is gummy smile correction painful?
Most patients experience only mild, temporary discomfort after treatment. Local anesthesia is used during the procedure itself, and any soreness afterward is typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relief.
How long does recovery take?
Recovery time varies depending on the specific treatment used, but many patients are back to their normal routine within a few days, with full healing of the gum tissue over the following weeks.
Are the results of gummy smile correction permanent?
In many cases, results are long-lasting, especially when the treatment addresses the underlying gum tissue or bone structure. Your dentist can discuss the expected longevity based on your specific treatment plan.
Take the First Step Toward a More Confident Smile
If you're ready to feel more comfortable smiling in photos, at work, or with friends, West End Dental is here to help. Call (503) 446-2957 today to schedule a consultation and find out which treatment option is right for you. |
