What Causes Uneven Gum Lines (And What You Can Do About It)

Your smile is one of the first things people notice. But if your gums look too high or low around certain teeth, they can throw off your entire appearance. An uneven gum line can make your teeth appear misshapen, uneven in size, or unbalanced. It can also leave you feeling self-conscious in photos or conversations.

At Cosmetic Dentistry by Dr. Ned Shimizu in Houston, TX, patients benefit from an expert with a rare distinction: Dr. Shimizu is one of just 85 Accredited Fellow dentists worldwide, and one of only three in Texas, recognized by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). With DDS degrees from Hiroshima University in Japan and Loma Linda School of Dentistry, and a deep background in aesthetics, he excels at resolving complex cosmetic challenges. 

What Causes Uneven Gum Lines

Several factors may cause gums to appear unbalanced or misshapen. These issues can affect one or several teeth, depending on the cause. Understanding these triggers helps you know what to look out for:

• Genetics: Your natural gum line shape and thickness are inherited from your family.
• Aggressive brushing: Using too much pressure or a hard-bristled brush can wear away gums.
• Gum disease: Infection and inflammation may cause gums to recede or become uneven.
• Teeth grinding: The pressure from grinding can affect the shape and alignment of the gums.
• Tooth loss or shifting: Gums may change as the surrounding teeth move or are replaced.

If left untreated, these issues can continue to worsen over time. Fortunately, cosmetic dentistry provides effective ways to reshape your gums and enhance your smile.

How to Fix Uneven Gum Lines

When it comes to correcting your gum line, Dr. Shimizu employs precise, quick, and personalized techniques. Depending on your situation, treatment may include gum contouring, veneers, or a combination of both.

Here are the most effective solutions:

• Gum contouring: This reshapes and evens out the gum line using soft tissue laser or gentle sculpting tools.
• Porcelain veneers: Custom-made shells placed on the front of your teeth to mask gum inconsistencies and enhance shape.
• Crown lengthening: This procedure removes excess gum tissue to expose more of the tooth, achieving better tooth proportions.
• Combination treatments: Tailored plans that adjust both teeth and gums for optimal balance.

Dr. Shimizu’s artistic eye ensures that each treatment plan brings harmony to your entire smile.

Let Your Smile Shine

If you’ve been hiding your smile because of an uneven gum line, you deserve a fix that works. Call 281-531-0710 and bring harmony back to your smile today.