Periodontal Procedures
Gummy Smile & Gum Contouring
in Foggy Bottom
Gummy Smile & Gum Contouring for Foggy Bottom residents at Precision Periodontics & Implant Dentistry
Periodontal Procedures
Gummy Smile & Gum Contouring in Foggy Bottom
For Foggy Bottom residents seeking gummy smile & gum contouring, our board-certified periodontists provide exceptional results at Precision Periodontics & Implant Dentistry in Washington DC. 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.
Located just 5 minutes from Foggy Bottom, our Washington DC practice makes it convenient to access specialist-level gummy smile & gum contouring care close to home. 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 Foggy Bottom.
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 team includes six board-certified periodontists — Drs. Zalewsky, Alani, Artis, Daru, Lakkis, and Ganesh — giving Foggy Bottom patients access to a depth of expertise unmatched in the DC metro area.
We encourage Foggy Bottom residents to take the next step toward improved oral health and confidence. Call our Washington DC office at (202) 296-3360 or use our online form to request your gummy smile & gum contouring consultation. We look forward to welcoming you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Gummy Smile & Gum Contouring FAQ for Foggy Bottom 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 Foggy Bottom to Our Washington, DC Office
Our Washington, DC office is approximately 3 minutes from Foggy Bottom, near landmarks such as George Washington University, Kennedy Center, and State Department.
Driving Directions: Head north on 23rd Street NW, then turn east on M Street NW. Our office is at 2311 M Street NW, Suite 500 — just blocks from the Foggy Bottom GWU Metro station.
Washington, DC: 2311 M Street NW, Suite 500, Washington, DC 20037
(202) 296-3360Request 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 Washington, DC office. We look forward to welcoming you.