Gummy Smile

Several factors can cause a gummy smile, including genetics, teeth that did not fully emerge during development, overgrowth of the upper jaw, a short or hyperactive upper lip, and conditions such as gingival hyperplasia.

Treatment options vary based on the cause and severity: gum contouring (gingivectomy) to remove excess gum tissue; crown lengthening to reshape the gum line and sometimes remove bone; orthodontics (braces or Invisalign) to reposition the teeth and sometimes the jaw; Botox injections to reduce the movement of a hyperactive upper lip; surgical lip repositioning to adjust the position of the upper lip; and orthognathic surgery to correct jaw abnormalities.

Gum contouring involves reshaping the gum line by removing excess gum tissue. This procedure can create a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing smile by exposing more of the teeth.

Crown lengthening is a procedure that removes gum tissue and sometimes bone to expose more of the tooth structure. This can reduce the appearance of a gummy smile and prepare the teeth for restorations like crowns or veneers.

Orthodontic treatments like braces or Invisalign can help reposition the teeth and, in some cases, the jaw to reduce the appearance of a gummy smile. This can also improve bite alignment and overall oral health.

Botox injections can be used to relax the muscles of a hyperactive upper lip, preventing it from rising too high when smiling. This is a non-surgical, temporary solution that needs to be repeated every few months.

Surgical lip repositioning adjusts the position of the upper lip by creating a new attachment point closer to the gum line. This prevents the lip from lifting too high and exposing excessive gum tissue.

Orthognathic surgery is considered for severe cases where the underlying cause is related to jaw structure. This surgery involves repositioning the upper jaw to reduce gum exposure and improve bite alignment.

Treating a gummy smile can enhance aesthetics by creating a more balanced and attractive smile, improve confidence by boosting self-esteem in social and professional settings, and promote better oral health by facilitating easier cleaning of teeth and gums, reducing the risk of periodontal disease.

Risks include infection from surgical procedures, some bleeding (though excessive bleeding can occur), increased sensitivity of teeth to hot and cold, minor scarring from surgical procedures, and the potential for the gummy smile to return over time.

Preparation involves scheduling a consultation with a dentist or periodontist to discuss your concerns and treatment options, providing a complete medical and dental history, and following any specific pre-procedure instructions given by your dentist, such as avoiding certain medications or foods.

Recovery time varies based on the treatment. Gum contouring and crown lengthening typically require a few days to a week for recovery. Botox injections involve minimal to no downtime. Surgical lip repositioning generally requires about 1-2 weeks for initial healing. Orthognathic surgery can take several weeks to months for full recovery.