When you smile, do you feel the appearance of your upper teeth is overshadowed by excessive gum tissue? Are you of the opinion that your upper teeth appear too short compared to the amount of gingival tissue displayed when you smile? If you answered “yes” to either of these questions, you may have a condition that is commonly called a “gummy smile” or excessive gingival display.
Gummy smile can have a negative effect on the aesthetics of your smile. The good news is that a gummy smile can be corrected through various treatment options
Gummy Smile Treatments
If you think you have a gummy smile, visit your dentist for confirmation and treatment options. Your dentist will examine your mouth, teeth and gums to determine the extent of the excessive gingival display and any possible causes. This examination may involve conventional and/or digital impressions of your teeth and gums. You may also need X-ray imaging so that the tooth roots and jaw bone can be carefully examined.
If you suffer from a severe gummy smile, your dentist may refer you to a specialist, like a periodontist, orthodontist or an oral surgeon. Depending on the nature of your specific clinical condition, treatment for your gummy smile could include one or more of the following:
- Same-day laser treatments (in minor cases)
- Surgical lip repositioning
- Orthodontics (braces) to move the teeth into more suitable positions
- Surgical Sculpting of the gingival tissues and bone to create healthier and more attractive looking gum contours
- Maxillofacial surgery to reposition the bone
