Gummy Smile
A gummy smile is a condition in which the upper gums are prominently visible when smiling.
A gummy smile, medically referred to as excessive gingival display, is a condition characterized by the visibility of a a gum tissue above the upper teeth when smiling. The appearance of a gummy smile can vary among individuals. Some may display only a narrow strip of gum tissue, while others may show a more prominent amount.
What causes gummy smile
There are many causes of gummy smile:
Excessive gum tissue: Some people are born with an excess of gum tissue that covers the teeth, resulting in a gummy smile.
Vertical maxillary excess: An overgrowth or excessive vertical development of the upper jaw can cause that gums are more noticeable when smiling.
Hyperactive lip muscles: Overactive muscles can elevate the upper lip, causing it to rise too high and expose more gum tissue.
Short or improperly erupted teeth: Teeth that are shorter than average or have not fully emerged may leave a gap between the gum line and the upper lip, making the gums more visible.
What are problems related with gummy smile
Having a gummy smile doesn’t always mean there’s a dental or medical problem. Most of the times it is an aesthetic and psychological problem – people are not happy with their smile and it can decrease their self-confidence and life satisfaction. Sometimes, dental or skeletal issues like malocclusion or an elongated upper jaw can cause functional problems or affect oral health.
If a gummy smile is causing distress, impacts your self-confidences, it’s a good idea to see a dentist or orthodontist. They will find out why your smile looks gummy and suggest treatments to fix any underlying problems, giving you a more balanced and attractive smile.
What are treatment options for gummy smile
There are many treatment options for a gummy smile. Which one is the best for you depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. Here are the most common treatment approaches:
- Orthodontic interventions like braces or clear aligners can help reposition the teeth and improve overall alignment, reducing gum visibility.
- Orthognathic surgery removes excess gum tissue, achieving a more balanced ratio between the gums and teeth
- Lip repositioning surgery adjusts the position of the upper lip, limiting its elevation and subsequently reducing gum visibility.
- In some instances, injecting Botox into the muscles responsible for lifting the upper lip can temporarily restrict their movement, minimizing the amount of gum tissue exposed during smiling.
The best way to decide on the treatment option is to consult a dental doctor who will diagnose the root causes, check if there are any other dental health issues that should be taken into account, and propose the best approach for each individual.
Can Coldy Dent help me with my gummy smile
Dr. Manol Ivchev has extensive experience in the non-surgical treatment of gummy smiles. We always do our best to develop the least invasive treatment that will create the most beautiful smile for our patients. The first step is to visit our clinics for free consultations – we look forward to helping you.
We helped many people improve their gummy smile. Read to find out how we did it.
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