Does your “gummy” smile cause you to cover your mouth when you smile or laugh? If you answered “yes,” then you are not alone. In fact, roughly 10% of American adults between the ages of 20 and 30 consider their smile to be “too gummy.” Whether it’s from abnormal tooth eruption, a hyperactive upper lip, or a jaw development problem, it is important to know that your dentist in Lincoln can help! Read on for six effective treatment options.
#1. Orthodontic Treatment
If imperfections in your smile are a result of an improper bite or minor jaw problems, then an orthodontic appliance may be the solution you’ve been looking for! Treatment options like metal braces and Invisalign can correct a number of dental concerns and make your gums appear smaller while smiling.
#2. Veneers or Crowns
If your front teeth are too short, more gum tissue is visible when you smile. Whether it’s a result of wear or genetics, porcelain veneers and dental crowns are two simple, long-term solutions that can lengthen your teeth. That way, there is a healthy balance between your teeth and gums, making your smile appear less “gummy.”
#3. Crown-Lengthening Surgery
Veneers and crowns are effective options for patients whose teeth have fully erupted, but what if they appear short because they haven’t fully emerged? In this case, your dentist will conduct a crown-lengthening surgery, which carefully removes gum tissue and bone to expose more of the existing tooth.
#4. Lip Surgery
A hyperactive lip is another common culprit of a gummy smile. Instead of conducting a complicated jaw surgery, patients can undergo lip repositioning surgery. That way, less of your gums will be exposed when you smile or laugh.
#5. Laser Gum Recontouring
Thanks to innovations in technology, patients today can opt for laser gum recontouring, which effectively removes the extra gum tissue. Not only does this option bypass the need for surgery, but it also delivers the same beautiful results!
#6. Gingivectomy
For patients with an abnormal amount of gum tissue, a gingivectomy can be performed. After removing the remaining tissue, your dentist can reshape the gums to expose more of your teeth and craft a balanced smile.
If a gummy smile is negatively impacting your self-esteem, then it is time to talk to your dentist! After your initial consultation, you’ll be that much closer to achieving a beautiful, seamless smile.
About the Author
After earning his undergraduate degree from the University of Nebraska, Dr. Louis Olberding received his DDS at the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry. Today, he is one of only two dentists in all of Nebraska that holds the prestigious position of being a long-term student and member of Spear Education. He is also an active member of multiple notable organizations and is a recipient of numerous awards, including the Dawson Academy Concept of Complete Dentistry Award. If you are interested in correcting your “gummy” smile, visit his website or give him a call at 402-488-2325.