Having a harmonious and balanced smile is the desire of many people seeking to improve their dental esthetics. At Clínica Dental Arpón y Quijada, we offer specialized treatments for those who present a gummy smile, that is, a number of gums visible when smiling. Through procedures such as gingivectomy and crown lengthening, we help our patients to obtain an aesthetic and natural smile. In this article we will explain in detail what a gummy smile is, what causes it and how we can help you correct it in our clinic.
What is the Gummy Smile?
A gummy smile occurs when, when smiling, an excessive amount of gum shows, which can give a disproportionate appearance between the teeth and gums. Although it does not represent a health problem, many people choose to correct this condition to improve the aesthetics of their smile. The causes of a gummy smile can include genetic factors, excessive jaw growth or even the position of the lips and teeth when smiling.
Causes of the Gummy Smile
There are several reasons why you may have a gummy smile, among them:
- Excess gum tissue: When the gum covers more of the teeth than necessary, giving the appearance of a large amount of visible gum tissue when smiling.
- Altered passive eruption: A condition in which the teeth do not fully emerge, resulting in more gum and less tooth showing.
- Position of teeth and lips: A higher upper lip or an unfavorable dental position may contribute to gum exposure.
- Jaw overgrowth: In some cases, the upper jaw may develop in such a way that more gum is visible when smiling.
Gummy Smile Treatments
Correcting the gummy smile can be achieved through a variety of dental procedures, depending on the specific cause and degree of gingival exposure. Here are the most common treatments:
Gingivectomy
Gingivectomy is a simple surgical procedure that involves the removal of excess gum tissue to achieve a more balanced smile. This gummy smile treatment is ideal for those who have excess gum covering the teeth, as it allows more of the tooth surface to be exposed without affecting the underlying bone.
2. Crown lengthening
Crown lengthening is another effective procedure that reduces the amount of gum visible when smiling. This treatment reshapes both the gum and the bone around the tooth, exposing more of the crown of the tooth. It is an ideal option for those who have short teeth or gums that cover too much of the crown of the teeth.
3. Orthognathic Surgery
In cases of gummy smile caused by overgrowth of the upper jaw, orthognathic surgery is a suitable alternative. This procedure focuses on realigning the jaw, which reduces the amount of visible gum and also improves bite functionality. It is a major procedure that can be the ultimate solution in complex situations.
4. Lip Elevation
Lip lift is a technique that modifies the position of the upper lip so that it does not lift as much when smiling, reducing the amount of gum that shows. It is a less invasive option than bone surgeries and can offer natural aesthetic results for those who desire correction without major surgery.
5. Orthodontic Treatments and Non-Surgical Aesthetic Options
Some cases of gummy smile can be corrected with orthodontics, which helps to improve tooth alignment and bite position. In addition, there are non-surgical options such as the application of hyaluronic acid to control lip elevation or the use of dental veneers to improve the appearance of the smile without directly modifying the gingival tissue.
Benefits of Correcting a Gummy Smile
Opting for gummy smile treatment not only has an aesthetic impact, but can also improve self-confidence and the overall appearance of the face. Benefits of correcting the gummy smile include:
- Increased smile symmetry: Achieve a balance between tooth and gum exposure for a more natural appearance.
- Improved facial esthetics: Especially in procedures that reshape the jaw or realign the bite.
- Increased confidence: Patients tend to feel more confident smiling after these treatments.
Why Choose Clínica Dental Arpón y Quijada?
At Clínica Dental Arpón y Quijada, we specialize in dental esthetics and in offering personalized treatments to correct the gummy smile. Our team of experts focuses on using the most advanced techniques to ensure a natural and harmonious result that suits each patient. If you are interested in improving your smile and correcting excess gum visible when smiling, do not hesitate to contact us. Schedule a consultation and find out how we can help you achieve a more balanced and aesthetic smile.
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