A “gummy smile,” also known as excessive gingival display, occurs when an unusual amount of gum tissue is visible above the upper teeth when a person smiles. While it’s not a medical issue, many people seek treatment due to feeling self-conscious about their smile. Mt Pleasant Dentist understands the impact a smile has on confidence and offers modern solutions to help you achieve your desired look.
What Causes a Gummy Smile?
Several factors can contribute to a gummy smile:
- Excessive Gum Tissue: Some individuals naturally have more gum tissue covering their teeth, making them appear shorter or uneven.
- Short top Lip: When you smile, your top lip may lift too high and expose more gum if it is shorter than usual.
- Hyperactive Upper Lip: When smiling, a hyperactive upper lip lifts higher than usual, revealing more gum line.
- Teeth That Didn’t Erupt Properly: Teeth may not fully emerge through the gums, leading to a smile where teeth appear partially covered.
- Problems with Jaw Development: Gums may protrude and appear more noticeable if the upper jaw (vertical maxillary excess) grows too much.
Why Correct a Gummy Smile?
While not harmful, a gummy smile can significantly impact self-esteem and how you feel about your appearance. Many individuals opt for treatment for cosmetic reasons, as a beautiful smile can enhance confidence, improve personal and professional relationships, and make a positive first impression. Mt Pleasant Dentist focuses on understanding your concerns and tailoring a treatment plan to your aesthetic goals.
Gummy Smile Treatment Options
Thanks to advancements in dental and cosmetic technology, Mt Pleasant Dentist offers several effective treatment options:
- Gum Contouring (Gingivectomy or Crown Lengthening): This common solution for excessive gum tissue involves reshaping or removing gum tissue to expose more of the tooth surface. It’s often performed with a laser or surgical scalpel and can dramatically improve your smile in one visit.
- Botox Injections: For a hyperactive upper lip, Botox relaxes the muscles that lift the lip too high. This quick, non-invasive treatment typically lasts 3 to 6 months.
- Orthodontics or Braces: Braces or clear aligners (like Invisalign) can help realign teeth and jaws, reducing the appearance of a gummy smile caused by jaw positioning or improper tooth eruption.
- Lip Repositioning Surgery: This minimally invasive surgical procedure lowers the upper lip to cover more of the gums when smiling. It’s usually done under local anesthesia and provides long-lasting results.
- Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery): For complex cases involving jawbone abnormalities, an oral surgeon may recommend this procedure to correct skeletal discrepancies in the upper jaw.
What to Expect During Treatment
At Mt Pleasant Dentist, treatment begins with a comprehensive consultation to assess your gums, teeth, and facial structure, determining the underlying cause of your gummy smile. A personalized treatment plan is then created, discussing options, expected outcomes, and recovery details.
Most patients experience minimal discomfort. Recovery for laser gum contouring and Botox is quick, allowing you to resume normal activities within a day. Surgical options may require more downtime, but the team will provide support throughout the process.
Why Choose Mt Pleasant Dentist?
Choosing Mt Pleasant Dentist means benefiting from years of experience, cutting-edge technology, and compassionate care. They are committed to delivering safe, natural-looking results, whether you seek subtle improvement or a dramatic transformation. They pride themselves on a welcoming, judgment-free environment where every treatment is carried out with precision and care, ensuring you leave with a smile you’re proud to show.
If you’re interested in exploring your treatment options for a gummy smile, you can book a consultation with the experienced dental team at Mt Pleasant Dentist.
Visit them online: Mt Pleasant Dentist Call today to book your appointment and take the first step toward a more confident smile.
