Periodontal Procedures
Gummy Smile & Gum Contouring
in Burke
Gummy Smile & Gum Contouring for Burke residents at Precision Periodontics & Implant Dentistry
Periodontal Procedures
Gummy Smile & Gum Contouring in Burke
Burke is a family-friendly Fairfax County community known for Burke Lake Park and its strong neighborhood feel, and when it comes to gummy smile & gum contouring, the community trusts the team of periodontists at Precision Periodontics & Implant Dentistry in Alexandria. Gummy smile correction and gum contouring reshape excessive or uneven gum tissue to reveal more tooth structure and create a balanced, aesthetically pleasing smile line.
We welcome patients from Burke and surrounding areas to our Alexandria office, conveniently located about 18 minutes away. A gummy smile — where too much gum tissue shows when you smile — can make teeth appear small or misshapen. Gum contouring creates ideal proportions between teeth and gums for a confident, attractive smile.
Why Precision Periodontics
Board-certified periodontists serving Burke.
As a practice with six board-certified periodontists, Precision Periodontics offers a level of specialized care that sets us apart in gummy smile & gum contouring. Our periodontists use laser and traditional surgical techniques to precisely reshape the gum line. Many cases can be treated with laser gum contouring for minimal discomfort and rapid healing. Our Burke patients appreciate both our clinical skill and our genuinely caring approach.
Ready to learn more about gummy smile & gum contouring? Burke patients can reach our Alexandria practice by calling (703) 823-2422 or submitting an appointment request online. Our periodontists are committed to providing you with outstanding care from your very first visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Gummy Smile & Gum Contouring FAQ for Burke Patients
What causes a gummy smile?
A gummy smile can result from excessive gum tissue covering the teeth (altered passive eruption), a short upper lip, hyperactive upper lip muscles, overgrowth of the upper jaw (vertical maxillary excess), or teeth that appear short because they haven't fully erupted. A periodontist can diagnose the specific cause and recommend the most effective treatment.
Is gum contouring permanent?
Yes. When performed by a periodontist who reshapes both the gum tissue and underlying bone (crown lengthening), the results are permanent because the bone determines the final gum position. A soft-tissue-only gingivectomy carries a higher risk of tissue regrowth.
How long is recovery after gum contouring?
Most patients experience mild swelling and tenderness for three to five days. You can return to work the next day in most cases. The gumline takes about two weeks to fully heal and six to eight weeks to reach its final contour. Laser gum contouring may offer slightly faster healing.
Can Botox fix a gummy smile?
Botox can be a non-surgical option when the gummy smile is caused by a hyperactive upper lip muscle. Small injections relax the lip elevator muscles, reducing how much gum is exposed when smiling. Results last three to four months and require repeat treatments. For gummy smiles caused by excess tissue or bone, surgical correction provides a permanent solution.
Getting Here
Directions from Burke to Our Alexandria, VA Office
Our Alexandria, VA office is approximately 20 minutes from Burke, near landmarks such as Burke Lake Park, Burke Centre, and VRE Burke Centre station.
Driving Directions: Take Burke Centre Parkway to the Fairfax County Parkway, then head north to I-495 East. Take the exit for Eisenhower Avenue and continue to Kenmore Avenue. Our Alexandria office is at 4660 Kenmore Avenue, Suite 300.
Alexandria, VA: 4660 Kenmore Avenue, Suite 300 & 312, Alexandria, VA 22304
(703) 823-2422Request An Appointment
Let us help you achieve a healthier, more confident smile.
Contact us with any questions or to schedule a gummy smile & gum contouring consultation at our Alexandria office. We look forward to welcoming you.