How to fix your gummy smile

A gummy smile is a common dental concern that we see often in our day to day operations. Sometimes this can vary from one tooth to an entire smile. The good news is that there are various available treatment options to address this. Here is a guide to some of the most popular ways to treat a gummy smile:

For people who want to correct their gummy smile using the least invasive means, muscle relaxant injections are a good starting point. With this procedure, the relaxant is injected into the muscles that elevate the top lip. The amount of gum shown when you smile is diminished by relaxing these muscles. Injections of muscle relaxants, can last for up to three to four months, and the operation itself is quick. It is a good short term solution that will require maintenance and continuous, on-going treatments. 

The excess gum tissue is removed during a cosmetic dental surgery known as gum contouring, often referred to as gum reshaping, gum lifting or gum laser surgery.  In order to have a more proportionate smile, this surgery entails cutting the gums either manually or with a laser. Traditional surgical techniques or laser therapy can both be used to complete the process. It usually takes an hour or two depending on how many teeth are involved and is done under local anesthetic.

If the condition at the root of your gummy smile requires treatment, braces or Invisalign may be required. The purpose of this procedure is to realign the jaw and realign the teeth. Depending on how severe the condition is, orthodontic treatment can last anywhere from a few months to a few years in duration. Further gum laser surgery is sometimes used in conjunction with this treatment if required.

Porcelain or composite veneers can be used in conjunction with the treatments above to achieve a precise aesthetic result. Patients typically choose veneers to address multiple smile concerns (such as a smile that is gummy and canted). We compare the differences between composite and porcelain veneers in a comprehensive showdown here!

Though we may feel conscious of the aesthetics of our gummy smile, looking at treatment options is a personal choice that is unique to every individual. Some hate it, some embrace it. We believe all smiles are beautiful and respect the choices of our patients. If your gummy smile does concern you, know that it is treatable. Your preferred course of therapy will depend on your particular preferences, oral health, and how severe your gummy smile is. The best course of action is to speak with one of our trained and experienced dentists, who can assess your smile and suggest the best course of action for you.