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A gummy smile, also known as excessive gingival display, is a condition where an unusually large portion of the gums is visible when a person smiles. This can occur due to a variety of factors including genetics, dental development, and certain medical conditions. While a gummy smile is primarily an aesthetic concern for many, it can also be associated with underlying dental or skeletal issues.
Several dental conditions can contribute to a gummy smile. One common cause is altered passive eruption, where the gums cover more of the tooth surface than usual, making the teeth appear shorter. Another cause is vertical maxillary excess, a condition where the upper jaw grows more than normal, leading to a larger display of gums. Additionally, a hyperactive upper lip, which raises higher than average when smiling, can expose more of the gums.
Addressing a gummy smile can involve various treatment options depending on its cause. These treatments range from minimally invasive procedures such as laser gum contouring, which reshapes the gum line, to more complex surgical interventions like orthognathic surgery to correct jaw discrepancies. Orthodontic treatments can also play a role by adjusting the position of the teeth and jaws to reduce gum exposure.
The approach to treating a gummy smile depends on its underlying cause. Here are some common methods:
Laser Gum Contouring: This procedure involves using a dental laser to precisely remove excess gum tissue and reshape the gum line. It’s typically quick, with minimal discomfort and recovery time.
Crown Lengthening: This surgical procedure removes excess gum tissue and bone to expose more of the tooth structure. It’s often used when altered passive eruption is the cause.
Orthodontics: Braces or clear aligners can be used to reposition the teeth and jaws, reducing the amount of gum shown when smiling.
Botox Injections: For a hyperactive upper lip, Botox can be injected to relax the muscles, limiting the elevation of the lip and thus reducing gum exposure.
Orthognathic Surgery: For severe cases involving skeletal discrepancies, this surgery corrects the alignment of the jaws, providing a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing smile.
Each treatment plan is customized to the individual’s specific condition and desired outcome.
Local Anaesthetic
no anesthetic needed
Yes, non-surgical options like laser gum contouring, orthodontics, and Botox injections are available, depending on the cause of the gummy smile.
Recovery time varies by treatment. Laser contouring and Botox have minimal recovery times, while more invasive procedures like orthognathic surgery may require several weeks.
Coverage depends on the insurance plan and whether the treatment is deemed medically necessary or purely cosmetic. It’s best to check with your insurance provider.
Many treatments offer long-lasting results, but some, like Botox, may require periodic maintenance. Your dentist can provide specific information based on the chosen treatment.
While early-stage tooth wear may be managed and slowed down with preventive measures, advanced tooth wear cannot be reversed, and treatment typically focuses on preventing further damage and addressing symptoms.
A skeletal condition where the upper jaw (maxilla) is longer than normal.
This condition causes the upper jaw to protrude downward, leading to increased gum visibility when smiling.
A congenital condition where the upper lip is short or the muscles lift the lip excessively. The upper lip lifts higher than normal when smiling, revealing more gum tissue.
Bruxism, characterized by the clenching or grinding of teeth, can exacerbate tooth wear by subjecting teeth to excessive forces and friction.
