Everyone loves having a beautiful, natural-looking smile. If you have prominent gums, though, your smile may not look exactly how you would like it to. Those with a gummy smile are often self-conscious, which may even lead them to smile less.
You may be wondering just what exactly is a “gummy smile,” what causes it, and how you can fix a gummy smile. Below is more information about what gummy smiles are and how they can be addressed.
A “gummy smile” is shorthand for describing a smile that has excessive amount of gums showing. While a gummy smile can be an indicator of an underlying oral health issue, in itself it is a cosmetic issue. That doesn’t mean it has zero effect on the patient, though. Many patients with a gummy smile are self-conscious about it, which can lead to a dip in confidence and even mood.
There are actually a variety of different causes for a gummy smile. Some of these include:
What is a Gummy Smile?
\\ Overgrowth of gum tissue
\\ Overgrowth of the upper jaw
Gummy Smile Causes
\\ An overactive muscle that raises the upper lip
\\ Teeth that are smaller due to wear or genetic factors
How Do You Fix a Gummy Smile?
\\ A short upper lip
Gummy smiles are generally a genetic issue. Because of this, they can’t be avoided. That being said, there are lots of treatment options for patients that have a gummy smile that provide a natural-looking appearance.
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There are quite a few different ways to fix a gummy smile. Below are some of the most common:
\\ Gum reshaping. A crown lengthening (gum reshaping) procedure is a common treatment option for a gummy smile. This procedure involves the removal of a patient’s excessive gum tissue. Once the gum tissue is removed, more of the crown of the tooth will show, which improves the appearance of the tooth.
\\ Dental crowns or veneers. A dental crown or veneer can be used to treat a patient’s gummy smile. These prosthetics match the color and appearance of the tooth they rest on, and the surrounding teeth. They are able to change the shape and size of the teeth they sit on—which can make the gums look smaller.
\\ Orthodontics. Aligners or braces can be a good choice for the treatment of a gummy smile. They shift the bite into the proper position, which can make the gums look less prominent.
\\ Jaw surgery. Jaw surgery is a more intensive solution. With jaw surgery, the jawbone of the patient is adjusted to address an underlying skeletal issue.
\\ Lip repositioning. Lip repositioning surgery is another surgical option your dentist may choose. This is less severe than jaw surgery.
If you have a gummy smile and you would like to address the issue, reach out today. A dentist will take a look at your gums, teeth, and jawbone and determine the best course of action to address your gummy smile. From there, we can set an appointment to begin the process of improving your smile.
Reduce a Gummy Smile
