Can Veneers Fix My Gummy Smile?

A gummy smile can make you self-conscious about your appearance, especially when the gumline overshadows your teeth in photos or conversation. While there are a few cosmetic dentistry solutions for this, many patients are surprised to learn that veneers can help improve smile proportions and create a more balanced look. But how exactly does this work?

At Designed Smiles, Dr. Peter Kim brings a caring, results-oriented approach to every smile. A graduate of NYU College of Dentistry, Dr. Kim has extensive training in cosmetic and restorative dentistry, including advanced courses in veneers, Invisalign, implant restorations, and smile aesthetics. His commitment to honest, personalized care means each treatment plan is designed with your proportions, goals, and comfort in mind. 

How Veneers Affect Smile Proportions

Veneers are thin porcelain shells bonded to the front of the teeth to improve their size, shape, and color. When used strategically, they can play a significant role in improving the balance between teeth and gums. This includes:

• Lengthing short teeth: Veneers can increase the length of teeth that appear too small to your gumline.
• Improving symmetry: If one tooth looks shorter or uneven, a veneer can help match it to the surrounding teeth, enhancing harmony across your smile.
• Refine proportions: Veneers contribute to the Golden Ratio, a principle in cosmetic dentistry used to create aesthetically pleasing smiles.
• Balance gum-to-tooth ratio: In combination with gum contouring or alone, veneers can help reduce the appearance of excessive gum tissue.

These improvements often lead to a more polished, confident smile without invasive surgical procedures.

Are Veneers Right for My Gummy Smile?

Veneers may be a strong option for addressing a gummy smile, especially when the teeth are naturally short or worn. However, certain factors will determine whether they’re the best solution, such as:

• Gum health: Healthy gums are essential before considering cosmetic work.
• Tooth position and shape: Veneers work best when teeth are correctly aligned or can be adjusted with minor reshaping.
• Severity of gum visibility: Dr. Kim may suggest additional treatments alongside veneers if your gummy smile is caused by excessive upper lip elevation or significant gum overgrowth.

A consultation with Dr. Kim will help you understand how veneers fit your smile goals and whether other procedures may improve results.

Ask About Veneers for Gummy Smile Correction

Interested in learning how veneers can improve your smile? Contact Designed Smiles in Brea, CA, at (714) 529-0100 to book your consultation.