Do you feel like you are showing “too much” of your gums when you smile? A gummy smile — known in dental terms as an excessive gingival display — can make you feel embarrassed to show all of your teeth when you smile. However, thanks to advancements in modern dentistry, there is a wider range of procedures available to fix a gummy smile.
What Causes A Gummy Smile?
There are many factors as to why you may have excess gum showing when you smile. The jaw may extend further than it should, making your gums appear longer. Your upper lip may also be overactive. For example, pulling your lip up too high when you smile and showing more of your gums underneath. Additionally, if your teeth have not grown out beyond your gums as far as they are supposed to, it can make your smile appear gummy.
How to Treat A Gummy Smile
Because there are many reasons why someone may have a gummy smile, there are a variety of treatments available for patients with gummy smiles:
- Laser Gum Contouring: This procedure uses cutting-edge laser technology to effectively remove excess gum tissue. Patients can obtain their ideal smile with minimal bleeding, faster healing, and natural-looking results.
- Crown Lengthening: This procedure involves the removal of gum tissue and bone to allow the gums to pull back to the appropriate position and reveal more of the tooth structure. This treatment may also be used when the teeth are not fully erupted.
- Gum Lift: A gum lift, also called a gingivectomy, is a common cosmetic procedure performed to reduce excess gum tissue. In this treatment, Dr. Sowell uses advanced dental lasers to gently remove excess gum tissue and reshape the gum line to create an aesthetically pleasing smile.
Plano, TX Cosmetic Dentistry
Determining the right treatment for you depends on an accurate diagnosis based on an individual evaluation of your smile. Schedule your complimentary consultation online. You can also call our office today at (972) 382-6855.