Gummy Smile Treatments
Even healthy teeth and gums can sometimes produce what is considered a “gummy smile.” Often just a cosmetic issue, a gummy smile is when a disproportionate amount of gum is shown when you smile. This can make normal teeth appear too short, and short teeth appear even smaller. Fortunately, there are several ways to address this issue if you find yourself dissatisfied with the appearance of your gums.
Causes of a Gummy Smile
Consulting with your dentist will help identify the extent of your excessive gums and the exact root of why they appear this way. For example, your gums may only appear large because of the shape of your lip or the size of your teeth. The way your facial muscles move and the shape of your teeth can also cause a gummy smile appearance.
The majority of gummy smile issues are aesthetic concerns, but a few more serious medical causes may also be at fault. If your gummy smile is caused by a malformation in your jaw or how your teeth have developed, there is a chance that this could lead to more serious issues down the road. Developments like these can cause bite issues which can lead to several other conditions such as increased breakdown of teeth, tooth pain and headaches.
Impressions, either digital or traditional plaster, often along with x-rays will be used to see not only the exposed portion of your teeth, but also the roots and bones of the jaw. Your dentist will examine this to identify your gummy smile issues and use this to recommend a proper treatment.
Possible treatment options include:
Surgery: for some conditions, a specialist like an oral surgeon is needed for surgical lip repositioning or sculpting of the gums and/or bone.
Laser Treatments: Laser treatments, if the issue is small, can be performed in as little as one day.
Braces: In some cases, the teeth only need to be repositioned to attain optimal proportions which can be accomplished with braces.
Read also: Invisalign® vs. Braces
Crown Lengthening: a form of surgical sculpting, crown lengthening involves removing excess gum tissue and sometimes bone to help reveal more of the natural tooth.
Invisalign: “Invisible” braces can also sometimes be an option for certain gummy smile issues and have the added benefit of being clear, unlike traditional braces.
A trained dental professional like the ones you’ll find at Art of Dentistry can identify the cause of a gummy smile and customize a treatment to achieve the results you want. To get started with a consultation, call us at 416.927.7677