Periodontal Procedures
Gummy Smile & Gum Contouring
in McLean
Gummy Smile & Gum Contouring for McLean residents at Precision Periodontics & Implant Dentistry
Periodontal Procedures
Gummy Smile & Gum Contouring in McLean
For McLean residents seeking gummy smile & gum contouring, our board-certified periodontists provide exceptional results 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.
We welcome patients from McLean and surrounding areas to our Reston office, conveniently located about 15 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 McLean.
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 McLean patients access to a depth of expertise unmatched in the DC metro area.
We encourage McLean residents to take the next step toward improved oral health and confidence. Call our Reston office at (703) 689-4442 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 McLean 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 McLean to Our Washington, DC Office
Our Washington, DC office is approximately 15 minutes from McLean, near landmarks such as CIA headquarters, Tysons Corner Center, and Great Falls Park.
Driving Directions: Take Route 123 (Chain Bridge Road) east across Chain Bridge into DC. Continue on Canal Road to M Street NW. Our DC office is at 2311 M Street NW, Suite 500.
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 Reston office. We look forward to welcoming you.