Aesthetics is a whole. The harmony between all the components that make up this whole creates beauty. Dental and smile aesthetics integrate the teeth, gums, lips, and the skeletal structure of the jaws.

Maintaining healthy gums is essential for all dental procedures. Unhealthy gums appear swollen and red, and can cause bleeding while brushing, bad breath, and gum discomfort, while also negatively affecting the appearance of your smile. Treating the gums to restore their healthy and natural appearance is the first step for both your oral health and aesthetics. Gum diseases are among the leading causes of tooth loss.

When smiling, gums are classified into three types based on how much of the gum is visible:
High Smile Line: Excessive gum visibility while smiling
Medium Smile Line: 1–3 mm of gum visible while smiling
Low Smile Line: No gum visible while smiling

In ideal dental aesthetics, a medium smile line—where 1–3 mm of gum is visible—is preferred. The amount of visible gum depends on the teeth, gum length, and lip structure. For individuals with a high smile line, a gum reduction procedure (gingivectomy) can be performed to reduce gum visibility and increase the amount of visible teeth, creating a more attractive smile.

The symmetry of gum levels plays an important role in the overall symmetry of teeth and smile. Irregular gum contours can be corrected with minor procedures (gingivoplasty) to achieve a healthier, more attractive, and symmetrical appearance.