Gum aesthetics · Gummy smile
A harmonious, confident smile
A gummy smile is when more than 3mm of gum tissue is visible when smiling. At San Dentist, our doctors examine the patient, determine the cause, and choose the appropriate method, such as gingivectomy (a minor surgical procedure to reshape the gums and teeth), to create a more balanced tooth-to-gum ratio and a more natural-looking smile.
3 mm
Gum line when smiling
60 minutes
Duration of minor gum surgery
5-7 days
Follow-up examination, suture removal.
4 levels
Classification of gummy smile
Overview
What is a gummy smile?
A gummy smile is a condition where, when smiling, the distance from the base of the teeth to the upper lip line exceeds 3mm. An aesthetically pleasing smile typically only shows the teeth and very little gum.
4 levels of gummy smile:
- Mild: more than 3 mm of gum shows, but less than 25% of the tooth length.
- Moderate: gum shows 25% to 50% of the tooth length.
- Severe: gum shows 50% to 100% of the tooth length.
- Very severe: gum shows more than 100% of the tooth length.
Reason
What causes a gummy smile?
Through examination and X-ray imaging, the doctor will determine the exact cause. The most common are:
- Short tooth crowns (altered passive eruption) – part of the crown is covered by gum.
- Enlarged gums caused by inflammation or bite trauma.
- Upper jaw overgrowth in the vertical direction.
- Overactive lip-lifting muscles pull the upper lip high when smiling.
- Short upper lip, from birth or after an injury.
- Genetics, or braces done incorrectly.
Why should you get treatment?
Does a gummy smile require treatment?
A gummy smile is not a medical condition and usually does not affect health. However, many people feel self-conscious about it, are hesitant to smile, and avoid social interaction. Correcting a gummy smile helps create a more balanced smile and brings confidence in work and life.
Method
4 methods for treating gummy smile
Depending on the cause and severity, the doctor will prescribe the most appropriate and safe method for each individual.
1
minor gingivectomy
The most common procedure involves the dentist removing excess gum tissue and shaping the gum line to match the proportions of the teeth. This takes approximately 60 minutes and usually requires no extended recovery time.
2
Muscle relaxant injection
This is applied when the cause is due to overactivity of the lip elevator muscles – reducing the lift of the upper lip to cover the gums.
3
Orthodontic treatment combined with intrusion
For deep bite and an overgrown upper jaw. See braces at Teennie.
4
Jaw surgery
For severe cases caused by excessive jaw bone growth – performed in a hospital – a longer recovery time is required.
Procedure
Surgical procedure for treating gummy smile
In accordance with the regulations of the Ministry of Health, the procedure is performed in a sterile minor surgery room.
1
Examination & consultation
General examination, X-ray imaging, and smile simulation after treatment.
2
Health check
The necessary tests are required to ensure eligibility for minor surgery.
3
Cleaning & Anesthesia
Oral hygiene and local anesthesia help ensure client comfort.
4
Minor gum reshaping surgery
Gum trimming involves shaping the gum line and tooth crown to the correct proportions.
5
Care & Follow-up
Instructions for home care, follow-up appointment, and suture removal will be provided after 5-7 days.
Diagnostic imaging
Identify the exact cause.
Sterile minor surgery
The doctor will perform the procedure.
Pre-treatment consultation
Answering all your questions
regular follow-up visit
Monitor the recovery process.
Expense
How much does treatment for a gummy smile cost?
At San Dentist, the cost of treating a gummy smile with minor gum surgery is approximately 10 million VND. The actual cost depends on the severity, cause, and method – it will be clearly stated after examination and X-rays, and is a complete package with no hidden fees.
Patient Stories
Results before and after treatment
Client Kim Hang after gum reshaping treatment at San Dentist.
Customer videos
What do customers say about San Dentist
Genuine testimonials from customers after receiving dental treatment at San Dentist. Click on the video to watch.
Our Dentists
Our Dentists specializing in implants
Clinical Director of Implantology · CCHN 007936/DNA-CCHN
Dr. Vo Ta Dung, Specialist in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Graduated with a Doctor of Dentistry degree from Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, specializing in implant surgery, periodontology, and prosthetics.
- Over 5,000 successful implant procedures, including many complex cases such as zygomatic implants and Pterygoid implants
- Advanced Certificate in Zygomatic and Pterygoid Implant Surgery – Jaipur, India
- Certificate in Autogenous Bone Grafting and Peri-Implant Soft Tissue Management – Bangkok, Thailand
- Digital Dentistry Certificate – Busan, South Korea; Dental Implant Certificate – Faculty of Medicine, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City.
- Pioneering the application of DSG surgical guide (Digital Surgical Guide) to improve implant placement accuracy.
Implant specialist
Dr. Tran Minh Hau, Specialist in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Graduated with a Doctor of Dentistry degree from Da Nang University of Medicine and Pharmacy.
- Certificate in Implant Surgery and Implant-Based Prosthetics – University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ho Chi Minh City
- Certificate in Periodontal Surgery – University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ho Chi Minh City
- Certification for Veneer Master Course and PIAR Master Course workshops.
- ITI 2026 Conference: Soft Tissue Management Around Implants – Right Indications, Right Techniques, Long-lasting Results
- Workshop on Dental Practice in the Digital Age – University of Medicine and Pharmacy Ho Chi Minh City
Implant specialist
Dr. Nguyen Thi Thuy Trang, Specialist in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Graduated with a Doctor of Dentistry degree from Pham Ngoc Thach University of Medicine.
- A practicing dentist specializing in dentistry at the National Dental and Maxillofacial Hospital of Ho Chi Minh City.
- Certificate in Implant Surgery and Implant-Based Prosthetics – University of Medicine and Pharmacy
- Certificate in Surgical Guide Design: From CBCT to Implant Planning
- Workshop on Full-arch Implant Prosthetics – Clinical and Laboratory Interaction; Aesthetic Prosthetics FP1
- Lyra ETK Symposium: Biological Stability – Aesthetics – Occlusion – Digital Process in Implant Dentistry
Implant specialist
Dr. Nguyen Minh Tri, Specialist in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Graduated with a Doctor of Dentistry degree from Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy.
- Head of the Professional Committee of the Dental Club – Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy
- Organizing Committee of the International Dental Science Conference and Exhibition – VIDEC 2024
- Dentist practicing in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery – National Dental and Maxillofacial Hospital of Ho Chi Minh City
- Currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Implantology at the University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ho Chi Minh City.
- Speaker at the “Oral Care with Experts” Workshop at the BAMBOO International School System
Specialist Doctor · Orthodontist
Dr. Nguyen Hong Ngoc, Specialist in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Graduated with a Doctor of Dentistry degree from Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy.
- Specialty of treatment: Orthodontics
- Professional license number 00049/GL-GPHN
- Certification in “Oral Surgery” – Ho Chi Minh City Dental and Maxillofacial Hospital
- Certificate in “Basic Dental Implants” – Van Lang University
Why choose San Dentist
Reputable clinics for treating gummy smile in Ho Chi Minh City.
1
Licensed to operate
It fully meets the criteria in terms of facilities, expertise, and medical conditions.
2
Experienced doctor
They are well-trained, licensed professionals who conduct examinations directly.
3
Standard procedure
Strict adherence to all procedures, without skipping a single step – protecting our customers’ health.
4
Accurate diagnosis
Panorex-Cephalometric X-rays accurately determine the cause and severity of the condition.
5
Absolutely sterile
Each guest has their own room and a separate set of sterilized toiletries.
6
Simulating a smile
Preview the simulation results to feel confident before making a decision.
Facilities
Modern clinic – sterile, meeting Ministry of Health standards.
No. 5 Ky Dong Street, Nhieu Loc Ward, Ho Chi Minh City. Separate treatment rooms, strict sterilization system, digital X-ray machine, genuine imported dental chairs.
Private treatment room
Genuine imported dental chairs
Sterilize instruments
Three-layer sterilization according to Ministry of Health standards.
Relaxation waiting area
Cozy and comfortable space
Reception desk
A warm welcome and attentive consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ about gummy smile treatment
The doctor administers local anesthesia before the procedure, so patients usually don’t feel any pain during the minor surgery. After the anesthesia wears off, there may be some mild soreness for a few days, which will gradually subside with the doctor’s aftercare instructions.
The procedure usually takes about 60 minutes, depending on the number of teeth requiring shaping. Patients can resume normal activities afterward and return for a follow-up appointment and suture removal in 5-7 days.
Results are usually stable and long-lasting when the underlying cause is correctly diagnosed and proper care is provided. In cases caused by lip muscle issues (muscle relaxant injections), the effect may diminish over time and requires maintenance.
Gum surgery at San Dentist costs approximately 10 million VND. The exact cost will be quoted after examination and X-rays – it’s a complete package, clearly listed.
For the first few days, eat soft, cool foods; limit foods that are too hot, spicy, or hard; practice gentle oral hygiene as instructed, and attend follow-up appointments as scheduled.
In cases of untreated periodontal disease, uncontrolled systemic conditions, or primary causes related to the jawbone, a different approach is required. The doctor will conduct a thorough examination and provide specific advice.
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