Do you feel like too much of your gums show when you smile? If so, you might have what’s commonly known as a gummy smile. While this is not a medical issue, it can make some people feel self-conscious about their appearance. The good news is that a gummy smile can be treated with various cosmetic and dental procedures to create a more balanced and confident smile.
What Is a Gummy Smile?
A gummy smile occurs when excessive gum tissue is visible when you smile, often more than 3-4 millimetres. This can make your teeth look smaller or shorter than they really are, leading to an unbalanced appearance. While what’s considered “too much gum showing” can vary based on personal preference, a gummy smile is simply a cosmetic concern for most people.
What Causes a Gummy Smile?
There are several reasons why someone might have a gummy smile, including:
Excess Gum Tissue (Gingival Overgrowth): Some people naturally have more gum tissue covering their teeth, making them appear shorter. This can be a result of genetics or conditions that cause gum overgrowth.
Teeth That Didn’t Erupt Properly: In some cases, teeth may be shorter or not fully erupted, meaning they didn’t grow in ultimately, leaving more gum visible than usual.
A Hyperactive Upper Lip: A hyperactive upper lip can cause your lip to rise higher than normal when you smile, exposing more gum tissue.
Jaw Growth Issues: A gummy smile can also affect jaw development. If your upper jaw grows too long or is positioned lower than usual, more gum may show when you smile.
Wear and Tear on Teeth: Over time, teeth may wear down or become smaller due to grinding (bruxism) or natural aging, causing a disproportionate ratio of gum to teeth.
Treatment Options for Fixing a Gummy Smile
Gum Contouring (Gingivectomy): Gum contouring, also known as a gingivectomy, is a standard procedure for reducing excessive gum tissue. This cosmetic treatment involves reshaping the gumline to remove the excess tissue and expose more of your teeth. The procedure can be done using traditional surgical methods or with laser technology, which minimizes discomfort and speeds up healing.
Crown Lengthening: If your teeth are covered by too much gum tissue and appear shorter than usual, a crown lengthening procedure might be recommended. This involves removing excess gum tissue and sometimes a small amount of bone around the teeth to expose more of the tooth structure. Crown lengthening improves the appearance of your smile and can also make it easier to clean around the gumline, which can improve oral hygiene and reduce the risk of gum disease.
Lip Repositioning Surgery: Lip repositioning surgery can help patients with hyperactive upper lips that rise too high when smiling. This procedure involves lowering the upper lip so that it covers more of the gum tissue when you smile. Lip repositioning is a minimally invasive surgery that can significantly reduce the amount of gum that shows and is typically performed under local anesthesia.
Orthodontic Treatment (Braces or Clear Aligners): Sometimes, a gummy smile may be caused by how your teeth and jaws are positioned. Orthodontic treatment, such as traditional braces or clear aligners like Invisalign, can help reposition your teeth and jaws to reduce the appearance of a gummy smile. If your gummy smile is due to the vertical position of your teeth or an overbite, orthodontics can help create a more balanced smile. This option can take longer than other treatments, but it can address the underlying cause and improve your teeth’ aesthetics and function.
Botox Injections: For patients with a hyperactive upper lip, Botox injections can provide a temporary solution to a gummy smile. Botox works by relaxing the muscles in the upper lip, preventing it from lifting too high when you smile. The effects typically last about 3-4 months, so you’ll need repeat treatments to maintain the results. This is a non-surgical option for people who want a less invasive treatment or are not ready for surgery.
Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery): For patients whose gummy smile is caused by jaw alignment issues, such as an overly long upper jaw, orthognathic surgery may be necessary. This procedure involves repositioning the jaw to reduce the amount of gum tissue that shows when you smile. Jaw surgery is a more invasive option typically reserved for cases where other treatments won’t be effective. To achieve the best results, it may also require orthodontic treatment before or after surgery.
Which Treatment Is Right for You?
The best treatment for a gummy smile depends on the underlying cause and your individual needs. During your consultation, your dentist or oral surgeon will evaluate your smile, take X-rays, and discuss your goals to determine your most appropriate treatment plan.
If you’re unhappy with your gummy smile, talk to your dentist about the available treatment options. With the right approach, you can transform your smile and feel more confident! Contact us to schedule your dental visit today.