Periodontal Procedures
Gummy Smile & Gum Contouring
in Herndon
Gummy Smile & Gum Contouring for Herndon residents at Precision Periodontics & Implant Dentistry
Periodontal Procedures
Gummy Smile & Gum Contouring in Herndon
Herndon is a welcoming town adjacent to Reston known for its charming downtown, Friday Night Live concerts, and proximity to Dulles Airport, and when it comes to gummy smile & gum contouring, the community trusts the team of periodontists at Precision Periodontics & Implant Dentistry in Reston. 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 10 minutes from Herndon, our Reston 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 Herndon.
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 Herndon patients access to a depth of expertise unmatched in the DC metro area.
Ready to learn more about gummy smile & gum contouring? Herndon patients can reach our Reston practice by calling (703) 689-4442 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 Herndon 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 Herndon to Our Reston, VA Office
Our Reston, VA office is approximately 10 minutes from Herndon, near landmarks such as Historic downtown Herndon, Herndon Depot Museum, and Reston-Herndon Silver Line Metro.
Driving Directions: Take Elden Street or Herndon Parkway south toward the Dulles Toll Road. Head east to Reston Parkway and continue south to Metro Center Drive. Our Reston office is at 1886 Metro Center Drive, Suite 610.
Reston, VA: 1886 Metro Center Drive, Suite 610, Reston, VA 20190
(703) 689-4442Request 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 Reston office. We look forward to welcoming you.