GUM CLINIC
Gummy SmileGummy Smile
Gummy Smile does not have a single cause. Whether the gums are covering the teeth, the muscles that elevate the upper lip are overdeveloped, or the alveolar bone is overdeveloped — each condition calls for a different treatment approach.
If your gums show a lot when you smile
Even with the same Gummy Smile, the appropriate treatment differs depending on the cause. Gum Contouring
One-line summary
Gummy Smile refers to a condition in which the upper gums are excessively exposed when smiling. At New York Yonsei Dental, we first identify the cause using X-rays and clinical findings, then recommend Gum Contouring if the gums are covering the teeth, or Lip Repositioning if the levator labii superioris muscle is overdeveloped. Depending on the case, alveolar bone recontouring may also be considered together if the alveolar bone is overdeveloped.
Key points
- The causes are divided into three categories: gums, lip muscles, and alveolar bone
- Differentiation is made using X-rays and clinical findings
- If the gums are covering the teeth, we look at Gum Contouring
- If the levator labii superioris muscle is the cause, we look at Lip Repositioning
- Depending on the case, alveolar bone recontouring may also be considered together if the alveolar bone is overdeveloped
We first identify what the cause is
01 When the gums are the cause
When there is an excessive amount of gum tissue covering the teeth, the teeth appear short and crowded. In this case, we look at Gum Contouring to reshape the gum line. The approach is based on the concept of revealing the original size of the teeth that have been covered by the gums.
02 When the muscles are the cause
When the levator labii superioris muscle is overdeveloped and the upper lip curls upward when smiling, more of the gums become exposed. In this case, we look at Lip Repositioning, which reduces the distance the upper lip travels when it rises.
03 Alveolar Bone
In some cases, the alveolar bone surrounding the tooth roots is overdeveloped. Depending on the case, alveolar bone recontouring may also be considered, and that determination is made after confirming the alveolar bone with X-rays.
04 When the skeletal structure is the cause
If there is severe overdevelopment of the upper jaw bone (maxillary excess), orthognathic surgery is the appropriate treatment. When the lip muscles and skeletal structure are both involved, Lip Repositioning may be considered first depending on the degree of concern.
05 Common Misconceptions
Many people assume that a single procedure will make the gums completely invisible. Since the outcome depends on the underlying cause, we first confirm this through a diagnosis.
First, let's identify what the cause isWe will guide you while reviewing your current condition together using X-rays and a mirror.
We explain all possible causes

New York Yonsei Dental does not explain only one cause. We will tell you whether it is the gums, lip muscles, or alveolar bone, and you, the patient, will decide what to proceed with.
During the explanation, we look at X-rays and a mirror together. We discuss while you directly see where your current gum line is and how much of your teeth are covered.
What happens on the day of your visit
Walk-in visits without an appointment may result in a significant wait time.
Appointments are required for all visits.
01 Reservation
Visit after booking an appointment
02 Imaging
Panoramic X-ray
03 Diagnosis
Differential Diagnosis
04 Explanation
Review together with a mirror
05 Choice
Patient makes the decision
06 Procedure
Performed on the same day
07 Progress
Recovery Guide
Cases where it is not recommended

Proceeding when it is not the right case may result in lower satisfaction. This applies when the upper jaw bone is severely overdeveloped and orthognathic surgery is indicated, or when the Gummy Smile is not severe.
Lip Repositioning is also not recommended when the depth of the oral vestibule is found to be insufficient during examination. This is because satisfaction may be low even if the procedure is performed. That is why we look at the diagnosis first.
Continue reading · Learn more about Lip Repositioning
Gum Contouring and Lip Repositioning
Gum ContouringGums

When the Gums Cover the Teeth
It is a procedure approached with the concept of reshaping the gum line to reveal the true, original size of teeth that have been covered by excess gum tissue.
- Duration
It takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes.
- Anesthesia
Performed under local anesthesia using an anesthesia device
- Recovery
Most daily activities can be resumed on the same day; gum recovery takes approximately one week
Results vary by individual
Lip RepositioningMuscle

When the Upper Lip Curls Upward
This procedure shortens the path along which the upper lip rises, reducing the amount of gum exposed when smiling.
- Duration
The procedure takes approximately 40 minutes
- Anesthesia
Performed under local anesthesia using an anesthesia device
- Daily Activities
Most daily activities can be resumed on the day of the procedure
- Recovery
Full recovery takes approximately 2 to 4 weeks, and individual results may vary
If you are wondering which option is right for youWe will advise you after examining your alveolar bone with an X-ray. If you make an appointment, your consultation will begin on the same day.
Before and After Treatment
This is a record of treatment outcomes. Only photos taken with the patient's consent are posted, accompanied by information on side effects and precautions.
BEFOREAFTER
Lip Repositioning · Case 01
BEFOREAFTER
Lip Repositioning · Case 04
BEFOREAFTER
Lip Repositioning · Case 06
BEFOREAFTER
Lip Repositioning · Case 10
환자분의 동의를 받은 사진만 사용하며, 부작용·주의사항 안내를 함께 표시합니다. 같은 시술이라도 원래 상태와 회복 과정이 달라 결과가 같지 않습니다 — 사진은 그 환자분의 경과이며, 다른 분에게 같은 결과를 약속하는 것이 아닙니다. 모든 시술에는 부작용과 합병증의 가능성이 있습니다.
Continue reading · Before and After Treatment
It is divided into four categories
Gum Contouring
This is a procedure that reshapes the gum line when the gums cover a large portion of the teeth, causing them to show when speaking or smiling.
Lip Repositioning
This procedure is considered when a well-developed upper lip elevator muscle causes the upper lip to curl upward. It directly addresses the underlying cause.
Alveolar bone recontouring
In some cases where the alveolar bone is overdeveloped, alveolar bone recontouring may also be considered. A decision is made after evaluating the alveolar bone via X-ray.
When Performed Together
If both the gums and the lip muscles are contributing factors, Gum Contouring and Lip Repositioning can be performed together.
Start by Checking Your Current ConditionEven if you have no prior records, you can comfortably start by having your current condition captured on imaging.
What Is Gummy Smile
Gummy Smile is a condition in which a significant amount of the upper gums is visible when smiling
일반적으로 웃을 때 윗니 위로 드러나는 잇몸이 3mm를 넘으면 잇몸 노출이 있다고 봅니다. 다만 이 숫자가 절대적인 기준은 아닙니다 — 얼굴 비율과 치아·잇몸의 조화를 함께 고려해 진단합니다.
Treatment is not determined solely by how much of the gums are visible. The key factor is what is causing the gums to show.
Continue reading · Gingivectomy Lip Repositioning
Different Causes Require Different Treatments
When the Gums Are the Cause
- Excess gum tissue covering the teeth makes the teeth appear short
- The gum line may also appear uneven in some cases
- Gum Contouring is considered
- Whether the alveolar bone is overdeveloped is assessed via X-ray
Continue reading · Gingivectomy Teeth Whitening
When the Muscle Is the Cause
- The upper lip curls upward when smiling
- This occurs when the upper lip elevator muscle is overdeveloped
- Lip Repositioning is considered
- Unlike Botox, you can expect lasting improvement.
Continue reading · Lip Repositioning Meet Our Medical Team
If the cause is skeletal — meaning the upper jawbone is significantly overdeveloped (maxillary excess) — orthognathic surgery is the appropriate treatment.
Continue reading · How are combined cases evaluated?
How is the diagnosis made?
01 X-ray
A panoramic X-ray is used to examine the tooth roots and the shape of the alveolar bone. Whether the alveolar bone is overdeveloped determines the course of treatment.
02 Clinical Findings
We examine the position of the gum line and the extent to which the teeth are covered. In some cases, there may be more than one cause.
03 Mirror
During the explanation, we guide you while looking together in a mirror. Seeing your current condition directly makes it much easier to understand.

The diagnosis is made using X-ray images and clinical findings. We do not ask you to smile during the examination.
Continue reading · Gingivectomy Lip Repositioning Teeth Whitening Directions
What to Prepare Before Your Appointment
There is not much to prepare. Simply think through what is bothering you before you come. For directions and office hours, Getting Here
01 What Is Bothering You
Please let us know whether too much gum shows, whether your teeth look small, or whether it only bothers you when you smile broadly — even if it feels fine otherwise.
Depending on which of these three applies, the area we examine will differ — Gums Muscle Bone The decision on what to proceed with is yours to make.02 Reservation
Walk-ins may experience significant wait times. If you make an appointment in advance, we will schedule you at a time that works for you.
03 Imaging
On the day of your visit, a panoramic X-ray is taken and a clinical examination is performed to assess your suitability.
Even if you have no prior records, you can comfortably start by having your current condition captured on imaging. Imaging It is performed when necessary.04 Explanation
We will explain every possible cause in full.
05 Choice
You decide what procedure to proceed with. We show you everything you need to make an informed decision.
Continue reading · Learn More About Gingivectomy Lip Repositioning
Continued guidance by cause
거미스마일은 원인에 따라 보는 페이지가 달라집니다. 아래에서 이어 보세요.
다음으로 볼 페이지
원인이 정해지면 아래 페이지에서 자세히 보실 수 있습니다
For inquiries, please contact us by phone.
Book a Consultation
If you book in advance, your consultation will begin on the same day you visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
웃을 때 윗잇몸이 많이 드러나 보이는 상태를 말합니다. 일반적으로 잇몸이 3mm를 넘게 드러나면 잇몸 노출이 있다고 보지만 절대적인 기준은 아닙니다. 잇몸이 보이는 정도는 사람마다 다르고, 그 원인도 잇몸·입술 근육·잇몸뼈로 나뉩니다.
The cause is determined through X-rays and clinical findings. A panoramic X-ray is used to examine the tooth roots and alveolar bone structure, while a clinical examination assesses the position of the gum line and the extent to which the teeth are covered. We do not ask you to smile during the examination. During the explanation, we will guide you while looking together in a mirror.
Many people assume this is possible, but the outcome depends on the underlying cause. We will first confirm this through diagnosis and then advise you on what can realistically be achieved.
If the cause is vertical maxillary excess, where the upper jaw is severely overdeveloped, orthognathic surgery is the appropriate treatment. If the cause is lip muscle, Lip Repositioning is the appropriate treatment. When both factors are involved, Lip Repositioning may be considered first depending on the patient's preference and tolerance.
If the cause involves both the gums and the lip muscles, both can be addressed together. We will advise you after confirming whether both factors are present during the diagnosis.
After Gum Contouring, most patients can resume daily activities on the same day, and gum recovery takes approximately one week. After Lip Repositioning as well, most patients can resume daily activities on the day of the procedure. However, this does not mean you will return to your usual state immediately — swelling, discomfort, and other symptoms may vary from person to person. Full recovery generally takes about 2 to 4 weeks, with individual differences.
When booking, please let us know if you would like same-day treatment, and we will proceed if your case is suitable. Even if you do not mention it, we will proceed on the same day if the schedule allows. Please note, however, that receiving treatment on the same day is different from recovering on the same day. Recovery timelines will be explained separately for each procedure.
There is a common misconception worth addressing here. Some say that recurrence is determined by the equipment used — this is not the case. The real deciding factor is whether the alveolar bone was assessed. If alveolar bone recontouring is needed but this is not evaluated before proceeding, there is a risk of recurrence.
The alveolar bone is the bone surrounding the tooth roots. Depending on the case, if the alveolar bone is overdeveloped, alveolar bone recontouring may be considered alongside the procedure. This is an entirely different surgery from Alveoloplasty.
Gum Contouring is not a treatment that exposes the tooth roots. Any sensitivity that does occur is usually temporary.
Yes, there are. Proceeding when the case is not appropriate may lead to lower satisfaction. This applies when the upper jawbone is significantly overdeveloped and orthognathic surgery is indicated, when the Gummy Smile is not severe, or when the vestibular depth is found to be insufficient during examination.
Walk-in visits may result in a significant wait time. We operate on an appointment basis, so booking in advance allows us to schedule you at your preferred time.
We guide you while reviewing X-ray images and looking together in a mirror. Seeing directly where your gum line currently sits and how much of your teeth is covered makes it much easier to understand. We explain every possible cause, and the decision on what to proceed with is yours to make.
They are entirely different procedures. Alveoloplasty is a procedure that reshapes the protruding portion of the alveolar bone, while Gum Contouring is a procedure that refines the gum line.
Director Son Young-woo personally handles everything from the initial consultation and surgery to post-operative care. We do not practice delegated treatment, where the responsible clinician changes midway through your care.