Do you want to fix your gummy smile? Are you longing to revive your contiguous smile? A gummy smile, characterized by excessive gum exposure when smiling, can make individuals self-conscious about their appearance.
This blog will discover what causes a gummy smile and how to fix it. We will also delve into the treatment of gummy smile and gummy smile correction cost. But before we move further, let us first look at the gummy smile.
What Is A Gummy Smile?
A gummy smile, medically known as excessive gingival display, is characterized by the visibility of a substantial portion of the gums above the teeth when a person smiles. Although no specific measurement criteria define a gummy smile, it is typically identified when more than 3 millimeters of gum tissue is exposed. The severity of a gummy smile can vary among individuals, ranging from a minor amount of gum display to a more pronounced and noticeable appearance.
In a gummy smile, the gums extend further down the teeth than what is considered aesthetically pleasing. It can result in a disproportionate balance between the gums, teeth, and lips, impacting the smile’s overall appearance. When smiling, the excessive display of gum tissue may become a source of self-consciousness for those affected.
What Causes A Gummy Smile?
A gummy smile can be attributed to various factors. Identifying and understanding the causes aids dental professionals in devising personalized treatment plans to correct gummy smiles. Here are a few factors that cause a gummy smile:
Excessive Gum Tissue
One of the primary causes of a gummy smile is an overgrowth or excessive amount of gum tissue. This condition, known as gingival hyperplasia, is attributed to genetics, hormonal changes, certain medications, or poor oral hygiene. When the gums grow excessively, they extend further down the teeth, leading to a gummy smile.
Teeth Size and Shape
The shape and size of the teeth are crucial in the appearance of a smile. If the teeth are shorter or improperly erupted, it may contribute to a gummy smile. Teeth that do not fully emerge from the gums may appear shorter, causing the gums to become more visible when smiling. Similarly, if the teeth are naturally small or have worn down over time, they may not adequately fill the space within the mouth, leading to an excess of gum tissue being displayed.
Abnormal Tooth Eruption
A gummy smile may sometimes result from abnormal tooth eruption. When the teeth do not erupt in the proper position or are delayed, it may cause an imbalance between the teeth and gums. This misalignment often leads to a gummy smile as the gum tissue becomes more prominent relative to the teeth.
Hyperactive Upper Lip
The position and movement of the upper lip also contribute to the appearance of a gummy smile. Some individuals have an overactive or hyperactive upper lip, which means it lifts higher than normal when smiling. This excessive lip movement exposes more gum tissue, resulting in a gummy smile. The hyperactivity of the upper lip is attributed to factors such as muscle structure and function.
Vertical Maxillary Excess
Vertical maxillary excess refers to excessive vertical growth of the upper jaw, which leads to a gummy smile. When the upper jaw grows vertically more than normal, it creates an imbalance between the teeth, gums, and lips. As a result, an excessive amount of gum tissue is displayed when smiling.
Skeletal Abnormalities
Sometimes, a gummy smile may be associated with facial and jaw abnormalities. Conditions like a short upper lip, a high lip line, or an overactive upper jaw can contribute to the appearance of excessive gum display.
Dental Malocclusions
Malocclusions, or improper tooth alignment, may also contribute to a gummy smile. When the teeth are not properly aligned, it can affect the balance between the teeth and gums. Dental issues such as an open bite, where the upper and lower teeth do not come into contact when biting down, may cause the gums to be more visible.
Treatment of Gummy Smile
With advancements in cosmetic dentistry, various effective treatment options are available to address and improve the appearance of a gummy smile. City Dental Hospital provides distinct treatment of gummy smiles ranging from non-invasive producers to surgical interventions, including:
Laser Gum Contouring
Laser gum contouring, or gum reshaping or gum lifting, is a popular and minimally invasive treatment for correcting a gummy smile. This procedure involves using a dental laser to remove excess gum tissue and reshape the gum line. The laser precisely removes and sculpts the gums, creating a more balanced and proportionate smile. Laser gum contouring offers numerous advantages, like minimal discomfort, reduced bleeding, faster healing, and precise results.
The dentist uses a laser to remove the excess gum tissue covering the teeth during the procedure. It reveals more of the tooth structure, resulting in a more harmonious smile. The dentist carefully contours the gums, ensuring they have a natural and symmetrical appearance. Laser gum contouring is a quick and efficient treatment option, and patients often see immediate improvements in the appearance of their smile.
Orthodontic Treatment
The orthodontic treatment effectively corrects a gummy smile, particularly if the underlying cause is misaligned teeth or an improper bite. Braces or clear aligners, like Invisalign, are utilized to gradually move the teeth into their correct positions, which aids in alleviating the visibility of the gums. By aligning the teeth properly, orthodontic treatment amirates the smile’s overall appearance and creates a more balanced gum-to-to-tooth ratio.
Sometimes, orthodontic treatment alone may not completely resolve a gummy smile. It may be combined with other treatment modalities to achieve optimal results. Orthodontic treatment requires careful planning and regular visits to the orthodontist to monitor progress and adjust the braces or aligners.
Crown Lengthening
Crown lengthening is a surgical procedure that involves removing excess gum tissue and, if necessary, bone tissue to expose more of the tooth structure. This treatment option suits individuals with a gummy smile caused by excessive gum tissue covering the teeth. The procedure uses local anesthesia, and the dentist makes incisions along the gum line to access the underlying bone and gum tissue.
In some cases, crown lengthening may involve minor bone recontouring to achieve optimal results. After the procedure, the gums are sutured in place, and the healing process begins. Crown lengthening improves the smile’s appearance and facilitates better oral hygiene, as it allows easier access to clean the teeth and gums.
Lip Lowering Surgery
Lip lowering or repositioning surgery is an effective treatment option for individuals with a gummy smile caused by an overactive or hyperactive upper lip. During this surgical procedure, the upper lip is repositioned to reduce gum tissue exposure when smiling. The surgeon makes an incision on the inside of the upper lip and adjusts the position of the lip to cover more of the gum tissue.
Lip lowering surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia or intravenous sedation. It requires careful planning and precision to achieve the desired results. After the surgery, patients may experience some swelling and discomfort, but these symptoms typically subside within a few days to a week. The results of lip-lowering surgery are long-lasting, and patients enjoy a more confident smile with alleviated gum visibility.
Botox Injections
Botox injections have emerged as a non-surgical treatment option for correcting a gummy smile caused by an overactive upper lip. Botox, a neurotoxin, is strategically injected into the muscles that lift the upper lip. It temporarily weakens muscle activity and prevents excessive upper lip elevation when smiling, resulting in less gum exposure.
Botox injections are a quick and minimally invasive procedure, typically performed in a dental or cosmetic clinic. Botox injections’ effects last several months; repeat treatments are required to maintain the results. This treatment option is particularly suitable for individuals who prefer a non-surgical approach or have mild to moderate cases of a gummy smile caused by a hyperactive upper lip.
Surgical Orthognathic Jaw Surgery
Sometimes, a gummy smile may result from underlying skeletal abnormalities or jaw misalignment. In such instances, orthognathic jaw surgery may be necessary to treat the underlying skeletal issues and achieve an optimal balance between the teeth, gums, and lips. This surgical procedure involves repositioning the upper or lower jaw to ameliorate overall facial harmony and reduce gum visibility.
Orthognathic jaw surgery is a complex procedure that requires thorough evaluation and planning. It is typically performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon in collaboration with an orthodontist. The surgery may involve repositioning the jaw, removing excess bone or gum tissue, or a combination of procedures. Recovery time varies, and patients may need to follow a prescribed orthodontic treatment plan post-surgery to ensure optimal teeth and jaw alignment.
Gummy Smile Correction Cost
The cost of gummy smile correction varies depending on several factors, including the specific treatment chosen, the severity of the gummy smile, the location of the dental practice, and the expertise of the dental professional performing the procedure. It is important to note that discussing the cost of gummy smile correction with a qualified dental professional is indispensable for obtaining accurate and personalized information.
The average cost of gummy smile correction in India may start from INR 1,500 and stretch to INR 90,000, depending on the type of treatment chosen. Non-surgical procedures like laser gum contouring and botox injections are generally more affordable than surgical interventions like lip lowering surgery and orthognathic jaw surgery.
Dental insurance coverage may also play a role in determining the out-of-pocket expenses for gummy smile correction. Some dental insurance plans may cover some of the cost, especially for medically necessary procedures. It is recommended to consult with a dental professional and check with your insurance provider to comprehend the coverage and potential reimbursement for gummy smile correction procedures.
Fix Your Gummy Smile With City Dental Hospital
If you’re looking to fix your gummy smile, City Dental Hospital is always here to help. With a range of advanced and effective treatment options, our experienced dental professionals address the underlying causes of your gummy smile and provide personalized solutions. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward correcting your gummy smile. Let us transform your smile and boost your self-confidence!
