Gummy Smile Braces Treatment: 7 Steps For Better Results

A gummy smile is when more of your gums show than you’d like when you smile. For some, it’s just a natural look. For others, it can affect confidence and make them feel self-conscious. While it’s perfectly normal, many people choose to adjust it for a smile that matches how they want to look and feel.

Braces are one of the most effective ways to treat a gummy smile, especially when the cause comes down to how your teeth are positioned. Unlike surgical options, braces gradually shift your teeth and jaw, leading to a more balanced smile without invasive procedures.

But getting the best results from braces isn’t just about putting them on and waiting. It takes a well-thought-out approach, the right treatment plan, and proper care throughout the process.

In this article, we’ll walk you through 7 key steps to make sure your gummy smile braces treatment delivers the results you’re looking for.

Step 1: Get a Professional Diagnosis

Before diving into treatment, the first and most important step is getting a proper diagnosis. Not all gummy smiles are the same, and understanding the cause is key to choosing the right solution.

A gummy smile can happen for different reasons—maybe your upper lip lifts higher than usual when you smile, your teeth didn’t fully erupt, or your upper jaw extends slightly more than average. In some cases, it’s a mix of these factors.

This is why a professional evaluation matters. An experienced orthodontist or dental specialist will take a close look at your teeth, gums, and jaw structure. They might use digital scans, X-rays, or molds to see what’s really going on beneath the surface.

Getting the right diagnosis means you won’t waste time on treatments that don’t fit your case. It also helps your orthodontist map out a plan tailored to you, setting the stage for results that actually meet your expectations.

Step 2: Discuss Your Treatment Options

Once you’ve got a clear diagnosis, the next step is talking through your treatment options. Not every gummy smile needs the same fix, so this is where a personalized plan comes into play.

Braces are a go-to option when the position of your teeth or jaw is causing the extra gum exposure. By gradually shifting your teeth into better alignment, braces can reduce how much gum shows when you smile. For many people, this approach alone can create the balance they’re looking for.

But sometimes, braces work best as part of a broader treatment plan. Depending on what’s causing the gummy smile, your orthodontist might recommend complementary procedures like:

  • Gum contouring: A minor procedure that reshapes the gum line for a more proportional look.
  • Jaw surgery (in severe cases): If the underlying issue is related to jaw structure, surgery might be necessary to reposition the upper jaw.
  • Botox for lip repositioning: In cases where a hyperactive upper lip causes the gums to show, Botox can help control how high the lip lifts.

The key here is customization. Your orthodontist will walk you through which options make the most sense for your situation—whether braces alone will do the job or if combining treatments will get you better results.

Step 3: Choose the Right Type of Braces

Not all braces are created equal, and the type you choose can make a difference in both your treatment experience and the final results. The right choice depends on your lifestyle, aesthetic preferences, and the complexity of your case.

Here’s a breakdown of the most common options:

  • Traditional Metal Braces:

The classic option. Metal braces are the most durable and often the most affordable. They’re effective for treating complex cases but are also the most visible.

  • Ceramic Braces:

These work like metal braces but blend in more with your teeth thanks to tooth-colored or clear brackets. They’re less noticeable but can be slightly more delicate.

  • Lingual Braces:

Placed on the back of the teeth instead of the front, lingual braces are hidden from view. However, they may take longer to get used to and can be more challenging to clean.

  • Clear Aligners (e.g., Invisalign):

Removable and almost invisible, clear aligners are a popular choice for adults and teens who prefer a discreet option. They work well for mild to moderate adjustments but may not be suitable for complex gummy smile cases.

Choosing What’s Right for You

The best option comes down to a balance between appearance, comfort, and effectiveness. While some patients prioritize aesthetics during treatment, others focus on the shortest treatment time or minimal maintenance.

Your orthodontist will help you weigh these factors based on your diagnosis and what you hope to achieve. Choosing the right braces from the start ensures that your gummy smile treatment stays on track and delivers the results you’re after.

Step 4: Prepare for the Treatment Process

Getting braces to treat a gummy smile isn’t just about showing up for the appointment. There’s some prep work involved to make sure everything goes smoothly and you’re set up for the best possible results.

What to Expect Before Getting Braces

Your orthodontist will likely run a few checks to ensure your mouth is ready for treatment. This can include:

  • Dental Cleanings: A clean, healthy mouth is essential before starting braces. Any plaque or tartar buildup can cause issues once braces are in place.
  • Cavity Checks and Fillings: Cavities need to be addressed beforehand. Braces can make it harder to reach certain areas, so it’s better to deal with any dental work now.
  • Possible Extractions: In some cases, removing certain teeth helps create the space needed for proper alignment, which can improve how much gum shows when you smile.

Mental Preparation Matters Too

Braces are a process, not a quick fix. Understanding the timeline—often 12 to 24 months—helps set realistic expectations. It’s also good to prepare for the lifestyle changes that come with braces, like adjusting your diet and daily routines.

Adjusting Your Routine for Braces

  • Diet Changes: Sticky, hard, or crunchy foods can damage braces, so you’ll need to avoid them.
  • Oral Hygiene: Brushing and flossing become even more important (and a bit more detailed) to avoid plaque buildup and gum issues.
  • Discomfort Management: Mild soreness after adjustments is normal. Your orthodontist might recommend over-the-counter pain relief and orthodontic wax for added comfort.

Step 5: Follow Your Orthodontist’s Instructions Carefully

Getting braces is only part of the journey. The real progress happens in the months that follow—and that’s where sticking to your orthodontist’s instructions makes all the difference. Following their guidance not only keeps your treatment on track but also ensures you get the best results with minimal delays.

Why Following Instructions Matters

Braces work by applying steady pressure to gradually shift your teeth. If you skip appointments or don’t follow care advice, that progress slows down. This can stretch out your treatment time or affect how well your gummy smile improves.

Key Things to Consider:

  • Regular Adjustment Appointments:

These visits let your orthodontist fine-tune the braces for steady progress. Missing them can push back your timeline.

  • Oral Hygiene Routines:

Braces create more spots for plaque to hide. If you don’t keep your teeth and gums clean, you risk infections or gum problems that could interrupt treatment. Brushing after every meal and flossing daily isn’t just recommended—it’s necessary.

  • Dietary Guidelines:

Your orthodontist will tell you which foods to avoid. Hard, sticky, or chewy foods can damage braces, leading to extra appointments and setbacks.

  • Wearing Additional Appliances (if prescribed):

Sometimes, braces alone aren’t enough. You might need elastics or other appliances to adjust jaw positioning. Wearing them exactly as instructed ensures everything moves as planned.

Managing Discomfort

Some soreness after adjustments is normal. Over-the-counter pain relief and orthodontic wax can help ease discomfort. But if you experience sharp pain or something feels off, don’t wait—contact your orthodontist.

Consistency Leads to Results

The more closely you follow your orthodontist’s instructions, the smoother and faster your treatment will be. Small daily habits, regular visits, and a bit of patience go a long way toward transforming your smile.

Step 6: Consider Complementary Procedures for Best Results

Braces can do a lot when it comes to treating a gummy smile, especially if the main issue is tooth alignment. But sometimes, combining braces with other treatments can take your results to the next level. These complementary procedures help refine the final look and ensure your smile is as balanced and natural as possible.

Common Complementary Procedures

  • Gum Contouring:

Also known as gingivectomy, this procedure reshapes the gum line by removing excess gum tissue. It’s often a simple, in-office treatment that can dramatically improve how your smile looks once braces have done their job.

  • Lip Repositioning Surgery:

If a hyperactive upper lip is part of the reason your gums show when you smile, a minor surgical procedure can help lower the lip’s resting position. This complements the adjustments braces make to your teeth.

  • Botox Injections:

For cases where the upper lip lifts too much when smiling, Botox can limit the movement. It’s a non-surgical option that provides temporary results but can be repeated as needed.

  • Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery):

In severe cases where the jawbone is the main issue, surgery might be recommended alongside braces to reposition the upper jaw. This option is more complex but can provide permanent results for significant gummy smiles.

When to Consider These Procedures

The timing of these treatments matters. Some, like gum contouring, are often done after braces come off to refine the final result. Others, like jaw surgery, may need to happen during the braces process for proper alignment.

Your orthodontist will guide you on whether additional procedures could enhance your outcome, depending on what’s causing the gummy smile in the first place.

Personalized Treatment for the Best Outcome

No two smiles are the same. While braces alone can create major improvements, combining them with complementary procedures might be the key to achieving the look you want. A conversation with your orthodontist will help you figure out the best approach tailored to your needs.

Step 7: Maintain Your Results Long-Term

Getting your gummy smile corrected with braces is a big achievement—but the work doesn’t stop when the braces come off. Long-term results depend on how well you maintain your new smile. Without proper aftercare, teeth can shift back, and gums might not stay as healthy as they should.

Key Steps to Maintain Your Results:

  • Wear Your Retainer:

After braces, your orthodontist will provide a retainer to keep your teeth in place. Teeth naturally try to move back to their original position, so wearing your retainer as instructed is essential. Whether it’s a removable retainer worn at night or a fixed one behind the teeth, sticking to this routine helps maintain your hard-earned results.

  • Keep Up With Oral Hygiene:

Healthy gums are key to a lasting smile. Brush twice a day, floss daily, and consider using mouthwash. Good oral hygiene keeps gum disease at bay, which can otherwise affect the position of your teeth and the appearance of your gums.

  • Schedule Regular Dental Checkups:

Routine visits to your dentist ensure any potential issues—like plaque buildup, gum inflammation, or minor tooth movements—are caught early. Professional cleanings also help keep your gums looking their best.

  • Watch for Lifestyle Factors:

Habits like nail-biting, teeth grinding, or chewing on hard objects can gradually shift teeth. If you grind your teeth at night, ask your dentist about a night guard to protect your smile.

  • Consider Follow-Up Treatments if Needed:

In some cases, minor touch-ups like gum contouring or teeth whitening after braces can enhance your final results. Discuss with your orthodontist whether additional procedures could keep your smile looking its best.

Braces can transform a gummy smile, but it’s the care you take afterward that keeps the results lasting for years. By following your orthodontist’s aftercare plan, maintaining good habits, and staying consistent with dental visits, you ensure that your new smile stays right where it should be.

Ready to Start Your Gummy Smile Braces Treatment?

Fixing a gummy smile with braces is a journey—but with the right approach, it’s one that leads to lasting results. From getting a proper diagnosis to maintaining your smile after treatment, every step plays a role in ensuring you achieve the look you’re aiming for.

But beyond the process itself, where you choose to get your treatment matters just as much. The right clinic brings together expert care, advanced technology, and a focus on your comfort—making the entire experience smoother and more effective.

If you’re in Dubai, Oval Dental Clinic offers just that. 

With top-tier specialists, cutting-edge equipment, and procedures designed for prime results, Oval Dental Clinic delivers the highest level of care while making sure you’re comfortable every step of the way.

Click this link to book an appointment at Oval Dental Clinic.