Cosmetic Dentistry Options for a Gummy Smile
A beautiful smile is often seen as a balance between teeth, gums, and lips. When you feel that too much of your gum tissue shows when you smile, it's often referred to as a "gummy smile," or excessive gingival display. This is a common concern for many of our patients, and it can stem from several factors, including the way your teeth have erupted, the muscle activity in your upper lip, or the development of your jawbone. While it is typically not a medical issue, we understand that it can affect your self-confidence.
Feeling confident in your smile is important, and thankfully, modern cosmetic dentistry offers several effective solutions to address excessive gum tissue. We believe in providing personalized care, which starts with understanding the specific cause of your gummy smile. From there, we can recommend a treatment plan tailored just for you. Exploring these options can be the first step toward achieving a smile that you are proud to share with the world.
Here’s how to fix a gummy smile.
Crown Lengthening
One of the most common and effective treatments we offer for a gummy smile is a procedure called crown lengthening. This procedure is designed to reshape the gum line and, if necessary, the underlying bone to expose more of the natural tooth. This makes your teeth appear longer and more proportionate to your gums. The process is often straightforward and can make a dramatic difference in the overall look of your smile.
During a crown lengthening procedure, a small amount of gum tissue is carefully removed to create a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing gum line. It is a precise technique that we perform with the utmost care to ensure your comfort and achieve optimal results. For many of our patients, this single procedure is all that is needed to correct a gummy smile and reveal the beautiful, full teeth that were previously hidden.
Gum Contouring with a Laser
Another excellent option for reshaping the gums is laser gum contouring, also known as a gingivectomy. This advanced technique uses a specialized dental laser to gently and precisely remove excess gum tissue. The laser technology offers significant benefits, including minimal discomfort and faster healing times compared to traditional surgical methods. It seals the tissue as it works, which reduces bleeding and swelling.
Laser gum contouring is ideal for patients whose gummy smile is caused solely by an overgrowth of gum tissue. The procedure is quick, often completed in a single visit to our office. We use the laser to artfully sculpt a new, more harmonious gum line that complements your teeth and overall facial structure. The result is a beautifully framed smile that looks both natural and balanced.
Find Your Smile Confidence With Us
Ultimately, the best treatment for a gummy smile depends entirely on its underlying cause. Whether it's a matter of reshaping the gum line with crown lengthening, using a laser for precise contouring, or relaxing the upper lip with Botox®, we have the expertise to help. Our goal is to work with you to find the most effective and comfortable solution, allowing you to achieve a balanced, confident smile you'll love.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cosmetic Dentistry
Is treatment for a gummy smile painful?
Patient comfort is our top priority. Procedures like crown lengthening and laser gum contouring are performed using local anesthesia to ensure you don't feel any pain during the treatment. Post-procedure discomfort is typically mild and manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers. Botox injections involve minimal discomfort, often described as a slight pinch.
How long does it take to see results?
The time to see final results varies by procedure. With laser gum contouring and Botox®, the initial results are often visible almost immediately, with final results for laser treatment appearing after the gums have fully healed in a week or two. For crown lengthening, the gums will need a few weeks to heal completely, but you will notice a significant difference right away. We will walk you through the entire timeline during your consultation.
At Fairbanks Dental Associates, we are dedicated to providing advanced, patient-focused dental care to the residents of Bell County, TX, and the surrounding communities. Our expert team is here to help you achieve optimal oral health and a smile you feel great about. To learn more about your cosmetic dentistry options, please schedule an appointment with us today.