What is gummy smile correction?
Gummy smile correction aims to achieve a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing smile by reducing the visibility of the gums and improving the tooth-to-gum ratio. A gummy smile refers to a condition where a significant portion of the gums is visible when a person smiles, overshadowing the teeth and affecting the overall aesthetics of the smile.
- Gummy smiles can be caused by several factors, including
- Excessive Gum Tissue: Some individuals naturally have more gum tissue covering their teeth, leading to a gummy smile.
- Hyperactive Upper Lip: A hyperactive upper lip can elevate too much when smiling, revealing more of the gums.
- Vertical Maxillary Excess: In some cases, the upper jawbone (maxilla) may be slightly elongated, causing the gums to appear more prominent.
- Abnormal Tooth Eruption: Teeth that have not fully erupted can cause the gums to be more visible.
Gummy Smile Correction Procedures
The specific procedure for correcting a gummy smile will depend on the underlying cause,the severity of the condition.
Some common gummy smile correction treatments include
- Gum Contouring: This procedure involves the removal of excess gum tissue to expose more of the tooth's surface. Gum contouring is typically done using a dental laser or a scalpel, and it results in a more harmonious tooth-to-gum ratio.
- Orthodontic Treatment: In cases where the gummy smile is caused by vertical maxillary excess or misaligned teeth, orthodontic treatments, such as braces or clear aligners, may be recommended to reposition the teeth and jaw.
- Botox Injections: For some individuals with a hyperactive upper lip, Botox injections may be used to relax the muscles responsible for lifting the lip excessively when smiling, resulting in less gum exposure.
- Lip Repositioning Surgery: In more severe cases of a gummy smile caused by a hyperactive upper lip, a surgical procedure known as lip repositioning surgery may be performed. This surgery involves modifying the position of the lip muscles to limit gum exposure during smiling.
- Maxillofacial Surgery: In rare cases where a gummy smile is caused by an underlying skeletal issue, maxillofacial surgery may be necessary to reposition the upper jaw (maxilla) and achieve a more balanced smile.
- The choice of gummy smile correction procedure will depend on factors such as the patient's age, the underlying cause of the gummy smile, and the desired outcome. It's essential to consult with a qualified dentist to determine the most suitable treatment plan for correcting a gummy smile
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