Gummy smiles: causes and treatment options

Gummy smiles: causes and treatment options

What is a gingival smile?

A gingival smile occurs when, when smiling, more than 3 to 4 millimetres of gum are displayed on the upper teeth. This gives the impression of a “disproportionate” smile, even if the teeth are healthy and aligned correctly.

What causes a gingival smile?

Gingival smile can be due to multiple anatomical and functional factors. Identifying the cause is key to defining the most appropriate treatment.

• Maxilar Long:

Excessive growth of the upper jaw bone can lead to exaggerated exposure of the gums when smiling.

• Impaired passive rash: 

It is a condition in which the teeth have not fully erupted, being partially covered by gum, which gives an appearance of short teeth.

• Low tooth position: 

Teeth that are positioned lower than normal can contribute to a gingival smile, especially if combined with other factors such as a very mobile lip.

• Short or highly mobile upper lip: 

A short lip or one that rises too high when smiling may also cause the gums to be overexposed.

How Gingival Smile Is Diagnosed

In ODONTOFAMILY, the diagnosis of the gingival smile is performed in an integral and personalized way, with an aesthetic and functional approach.

• Clinical evaluation:

The ratio of teeth, gums and lips is analyzed. The amount of gum exposed when smiling is measured and the overall facial harmony is evaluated.

• Radiographic examinations and facial analysis:

X-rays, photographs, and cephalometric studies are used to observe bone position, dental rash, and the relationship between jaw, jaw, and soft tissues.

• Importance of personalized diagnosis:

Every smile is unique. ODONTOFAMILY, a treatment plan adapted to the anatomical characteristics and aesthetic desires of each patient is designed, guaranteeing natural and lasting results.

Correct gingival smile without surgery.

There are non-surgical alternatives to correct mild or moderate cases of gingival smile:

• • veners or crowns: In some cases, lengthening the teeth visually can balance the ratio with the gum.
    
• Simple gingivectomy: minimally invasive procedure to eliminate excess gum.

Gingival smile treatment.

In ODONTOFAMILY, specialized and coordinated treatments are offered by a multidisciplinary team that includes orthodontists, periodontists and maxillofacial surgeons.

• Orthognathic surgery:

Recommended in cases where the problem lies in excessive growth of the upper jaw. It allows repositioning of facial bones and improves both aesthetic and chewing function.

• Gingivectomy:

Surgical procedure that consists of cutting the excess gum, allowing greater exposure of the tooth. It is ideal to treat the altered passive rash.

• Orthodontics:

In certain cases, orthodontics can reposition teeth and modify the level of gingival exposure. It can be combined with other procedures to achieve a harmonic result.

In ODONTOFAMILY, We transform smiles with clinical and aesthetic focus. If you feel that your smile shows more gum than you would like, schedule your assessment with us. Our team will accompany you at every step of the treatment, ensuring an effective solution and according to your expectations.

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