What is Gummy Smile?

The condition called “Gummy Smile” is when the gums are more visible than normal when smiling. This condition can be aesthetically disturbing and can affect the self-confidence of individuals. Generally, when the upper lip is lifted, the gums are more than 3 millimeters visible, which is considered a gummy smile.

What Causes Gummy Smile?

Gum Overgrowth or Excessive Covering of Teeth: Excessive growth of gums can cover some of the teeth, causing excessive gum display when smiling. Also, excessive impaction of teeth can cause gums to appear more prominent.

Excessive Upper Lip Mobility: Excessive movement of the upper lip muscles causes the upper lip to be pulled up more when smiling and the gums to become more visible.

Jaw Structure: An overdeveloped or anterior position of the upper jaw may cause excessive gum exposure.

Lip Length: A congenital short upper lip structure can also increase the visibility of the gums.

Can Gummy Smile Be Fixed?

Yes, gummy smile can be corrected with cosmetic and surgical treatments. There are a variety of treatment options available, depending on the source and severity of the problem. An evaluation with your dentist will help determine which treatment method is best for you.

What are Gummy Smile Treatments?

There are multiple treatment options for correcting a gummy smile.

Laser Gum Shaping: Using a laser, excess gum tissue is removed, reducing the appearance of the gums. This method provides a quick and usually painless recovery.

Botox Injections: Botox injections can be used to reduce the visibility of the gums by reducing the mobility of the upper lip muscles. This method provides a temporary solution and may need to be repeated every 4-6 months.

Orthodontic Treatment: A gummy smile caused by misalignment of the teeth or jaw can be corrected with orthodontic treatment. Braces or other orthodontic devices can be used to move the teeth and jaw into the correct position. In more advanced cases, jaw surgery may be required.

Lip Positioning Procedure: Lip repositioning can eliminate the appearance of a gummy smile by restricting excessive upward movement of the lip.

Gingivectomy: In cases where there is excessive gum tissue, the gum tissue can be surgically removed to make the gums less visible. This process can be done with the help of lasers.

Are Gummy Smile Treatment Results Permanent?

The permanence of the treatment results depends on the method chosen. Methods such as laser gum shaping and surgical intervention usually provide long-term or permanent results. However, temporary treatments such as Botox injections must be repeated at certain intervals. Regular oral care and dental check-ups after treatment will help maintain the results achieved.