Gummy Smile Treatments
If you think you have a gummy smile, Dr. Gaither can help with confirmation and treatment options. Through examining your mouth, teeth and gums to determine the extent of the excessive gingival display and any possible causes. This examination may involve conventional and/or digital impressions of your teeth and gums. You may also need X-ray imaging so that the tooth roots and jaw bone can be carefully examined.
Depending on the nature of your specific clinical condition, treatment for your gummy smile could include one or more of the following:
Same-day laser treatments (in minor cases).
Surgical lip repositioning.
Orthodontics (braces) to move the teeth into more suitable positions.
Surgical Sculpting of the gingival tissues and bone to create healthier and more attractive looking gum contours.
Maxillofacial surgery to reposition the bone.
For example, according to the American Academy of Periodontology, a periodontist can perform a "crown lengthening" procedure to correct the appearance of a gummy smile. During this procedure, the periodontist will remove the excess gum tissue – and possibly bone – in order to expose more of the tooth's surface. This Surgical Sculpting procedure can be performed on one or more teeth to create an even gum line or a more natural looking smile.
As a result, gummy smile sufferers see more of their teeth when they smile and less of their gums.
The American Academy of Periodontology states that the benefits of crown lengthening procedures include increased comfort and confidence when smiling, eating and speaking, as well as improved periodontal (gum tissue) health.