We all want a beautiful smile. While nothing should ever stop you from smiling, you may be self-conscious because of your gums.
Below is more information about what a “gummy smile” is, what causes it, and how it can be treated.
What is a Gummy Smile?
A “gummy smile” is exactly what it sounds like—it is a smile where an excessive amount of a patient’s gums are showing. A gummy smile can be frustrating, but it is mainly a cosmetic issue. They may be an indicator of a more serious oral health issue, but generally excessive gums aren’t any cause for concern.
What Causes a Gummy Smile?
There are a few things that can cause a gummy smile. These include:
* Overgrowth of gum tissue
* A short upper lip
* An overactive muscle that raises the upper lip
* Teeth that are smaller due to wear or genetic factors
* Overgrowth of the upper jaw
Gummy smiles are generally due to genetics and can’t be avoided. With that said, there are treatment options that are available to most patients to address their gummy smile and create a more natural-looking appearance.
Gummy Smile Treatment
There are a few treatment options for a gummy smile. These include:
* Gum reshaping. A gum reshaping (or crown lengthening) procedure is a common option for the treatment of a gummy smile. A crown lengthening procedure involves the removal of excessive gum tissue. This allows more of the crown of a tooth to show and improves the overall appearance of the tooth.
* Orthodontics. Braces or aligners can help with the treatment of a gummy smile. By shifting the bite into the right position, the gums may look less prominent.
* Jaw surgery. For patients with moderate to severe jaw protrusion, surgery may be required. If the jaw is too far forward or backward, jaw surgery may be needed to address the underlying skeletal issue. Often, jaw surgery is done in conjunction with orthodontic treatment.
* Dental crowns or veneers. Dental veneers and crowns are sometimes used for the treatment of a gummy smile. These tooth-colored prosthetics can change the size and shape of the teeth—in turn making the gums appear smaller in comparison. It’s important to keep in mind that both of these procedures are permanent and cannot be reversed once they are completed.
* Lip repositioning. Another surgical option that is less severe than jaw surgery is lip repositioning surgery. This procedure is often performed after orthodontic treatment.
Contact Us Today
In order to determine which treatment option is right for you, you’ll want to schedule an appointment with a top dentist in the field. Our dentist provides top gummy smile adjustment services that will balance the look of your teeth and gums and provide you with a natural-looking smile. This, in turn, can provide a boost in self-esteem, confidence, and even mood!
We look forward to speaking with you and addressing your gummy smile.