Gummy Smile
A gummy smile is defined as an excessive display of gum tissue when you smile. Thankfully, there is nothing dangerous or unhealthy about having a gummy smile. However, some people feel it makes them look unattractive and may even feel reluctant to smile.
WHAT IS A GUMMY SMILE?
A gummy smile is defined as an excessive display of gum tissue when you smile. Thankfully, there is nothing dangerous or unhealthy about having a gummy smile. However, some people feel it makes them look unattractive and may even feel reluctant to smile. There are a number of possible treatment options depending on the cause of the excessive gingival display.
WHAT CAUSES A GUMMY SMILE?
There are many reasons for appearing to have a gummy smile. It may be due to overgrowth of gingival (gum tissue), short or small teeth, small sized lips or overactivity of the muscles that lift up the upper lip. The cause may also be a combination of these (for example small thin lips and overactive muscles).
TREATMENTS FOR GUMMY SMILE CORRECTION
There are many options for correction. If the cause is due to the teeth or gum tissue then you should visit the dentist who can investigate and offer treatments to address these causes.
For gumminess caused by overactive muscles, injection of Botox into the hyperactive muscles weaken them. This corrects any asymmetry and excessive gingival display to eliminate gumminess. If the cause of your gummy smile is a thin upper lip, consider lip enhancement with hyaluronic acid dermal fillers. These can provide a fuller lip which reduces the appearance of gums when smiling.