Simone’s 22-Year Smile Transformation with Gum Lift & Composite Veneers
Quick Facts
Concerns
“Gummy” smile, short upper teeth,
self-conscious about smiling
Plan
One-day gum lift + composite veneers
on upper front teeth
Duration
~4 hours chair-time plus natural
healing period
Appointments
Initial consultation → diagnostics
→ treatment day → follow-ups
Cost Range
Significantly lower than the surgical
periodontal option quoted in 1997 ($20–30k)
Maintenance
Significantly lower than the surgical
periodontal option quoted in 1997 ($20–30k)
Case Narrative
Starting Point: A Life-Long “Gummy” Smile
Simone Harris had felt self-conscious about her smile since childhood.
- Even with braces as a teen, her upper teeth looked small and her smile felt “too gummy.”
- She rarely smiled in photos and often felt embarrassed.
- A periodontist had offered surgical gum removal of about 1 mm for an estimated $20–30k — a steep option in 1997.
- At 27, Simone found our practice after seeing Dr Sarkis in a magazine feature.
“I spent my whole life being called ‘gummy’… I rarely smiled because I was paranoid about my mouth.” — Simone
Treatment Plan: Gum Lift with Composite Veneers
A streamlined, minimally invasive approach was chosen over major periodontal surgery:
- Gum Lift (Aesthetic Crown-Lengthening): reshaped the gum line to reveal more tooth surface and create natural symmetry.
- Composite Veneers: directly sculpted and bonded on the same day to lengthen and reshape the front teeth.
- Custom Smile Design: guided by Simone’s facial proportions and skin tone, not by a generic digital template.
- Shade & Reflection: selected to complement Simone’s complexion and maintain a natural, soft appearance.
“We created symmetry and harmony to complement her facial aesthetics.” — Dr Sarkis
The Journey: Comfortable, Efficient, Transformative
- Consultation & Diagnostics: photos, gum line analysis, treatment discussion.
- Treatment Day: ~4 hours chair-time for the gum lift and composite veneers.
- Healing Phase: gums settled naturally over the following weeks.
- No Facial Fillers or Surgery: the rejuvenated smile alone enhanced facial balance.
- Long-Term Care: routine check-ups, hygiene visits, and occasional veneer polishing.
“You basically did the procedure in one take… I was in the chair for about four hours that day.” — Simone
The Result: 22 Years On
The change in Simone’s smile was immediate — and has stood the test of time.
- Harmonised gum line and proportionate teeth create a brighter, more balanced smile.
- Custom colour with lower light reflection suits her skin tone.
- Even after 22 years, the veneers continue to look fresh, natural, and youthful.
- Simone now smiles freely and feels her smile is in balance with her whole face.
- Dr Sarkis observes that improving the smile improves the perception of overall facial youthfulness.
“It did change my life… I was paranoid before, and now I smile.” — Simone
“I reckon she looks 22 years younger than before.” — Dr Sarkis
Care & Longevity
Daily Home Care
Regular brushing and flossing; avoid biting hard objects.
Professional Care
Ongoing check-ups and cleaning; veneer polishing if needed.
Proven Longevity
22-year-old composite veneers still intact and attractive.
Warranty
Original treatment warranty has long lapsed, but this case demonstrates how good planning and proper care extend the life of composite veneers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do composite veneers last?
Is gum lifting painful?
Will the smile still look natural as I age?
What maintenance do I need after a gum lift and veneers?
- Daily brushing and flossing to keep gums healthy.
- Regular professional cleans and reviews every 6–12 months.
- Occasional veneer polishing to refresh the surface.
- Avoid biting hard objects (like ice, pens, or bottle tops) to protect veneers.
Can composite veneers be repaired or replaced if needed?
Start Your Smile Journey Today
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What Our Patients Say
Here are just a few reflections from patients featured in our case studies. Every story is different, but each one speaks to the power of feeling proud of your smile again.
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