This guide outlines how to fix a gummy smile, with explanations of the different methods.
A gummy smile is characterized by exaggerated exposure of the gums when a person smiles. By the way, this is a factor that may worry those who have this characteristic, which is commonly found in approximately 10% of the population between 20 and 30 years old, mainly females.
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How to fix a gummy smile: types
The first type is when there is an excessive vertical dimension of the maxilla. In other words, there is a skeletal problem. Another cause is hypermobility of the upper lip elevator muscles. In other words, the upper lip rises a lot when smiling, exposing a large section of the gums.
The third cause is excess gum over the dental crown. There is also a combination of two or more factors, leading to the combined form of a gummy smile.
Do all people who have a gummy smile need to correct it?
Correction of the gummy smile is associated with the patient’s aesthetic complaints. Therefore, the correction will be the patient’s choice, if there is no need or choice for rehabilitative procedures. However, if the patient wishes to undergo a dental rehabilitation procedure, such as contact lenses, for example, correction of the gummy smile is often necessary.
Can anyone with a gummy smile have it corrected?
A thorough assessment of the case is necessary to verify what can be done, taking into account the etiology and the patient’s desires. Different methods can be proposed for each case.
Detailed and specialized clinical examinations are necessary, as well as radiographic and sometimes tomographic examinations.
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How to fix a gummy smile: methods
The technique to be used depends on the diagnosis of each patient.
- Gingivectomy / gingivoplasty procedures can be performed when the case is simpler and without the need for intervention in the bone tissue.
- Aesthetic/prosthetic crown augmentation to fix gummy smile can be performed when there is a need for intervention in the bone tissue and/or teeth.
- It is also possible to apply botulinum toxin (botox) to prevent the upper lip from rising too much when smiling.
- More complex cases may require orthognathic surgery (performed under general anesthesia in a hospital environment).
Gingivoplasty
Clinical and complementary exams allow planning the extent of gingivoplasty plastic surgery for gingival retraction and the amount of tissue to be removed.
In some cases, additional rehabilitative procedures (resin veneers, dental contact lenses, full crowns, etc.) are necessary for the result to be completely aesthetically pleasing.
Does surgery to correct a gummy smile hurt?
Pain is something very subjective. However, the procedure itself is not so invasive that it causes extreme pain. Pre and post-operative medication is always administered to ensure the greatest possible comfort.
How is surgery to correct a gummy smile performed?
Gingival plastic surgery is performed so that “excess” gums are removed within facial and dental harmony standards. Sometimes, we also need to work on bone tissue, which can also be excess.
What is the recommendation before performing gummy smile surgery?
It is important that the gums are healthy, free from plaque and calculus, and that the patient has answered all the important questions in the medical history.
How to fix a gummy smile with Botox
To correct it there is another option that is gaining ground in dentistry: treatment with botulinum toxin. The technique is painless and recovery is quick.
Firstly, if you have a gummy smile and want to fix it, you should have an evaluation with your dentist. After this, one of the techniques recommended in cases of gummy smile is the application of botulinum toxin.
Therefore, without surgery, it is a very effective alternative, reducing the amount of gum that is exposed when the person smiles. Botulinum toxin acts by inhibiting muscle contraction of the lips, preventing them from rising as much when smiling.
This is a technique for how to fix a gummy smile with quick recovery, thus not interfering with the patient’s routine. Immediately after application, the person can return to their daily tasks. The only recommendation is that no physical exercise be performed for 24 hours after the procedure.
When injected, botulinum toxin acts as a neuromuscular blocker, preventing muscle contraction. Botox is increasingly being used for aesthetic treatments such as for how to fix a gummy smile.
Botox is applied to the muscle that pulls the upper lip when the person smiles. Its function is to “lock” the lip, preventing the gums from being exposed. Therefore, the application is quick and almost painless, carried out in the dental office with local anesthesia. This way, after approximately 15 days, the final result appears. However, 48 hours after application you can already notice a difference in your smile.
How long does botox last for a gummy smile?
On average, the results last 4 to 6 months, and the application can be done again after this period. Therefore, the procedure is recommended every 4 months in the first year, and after that time, every 6 months.
Final words
The information above on methods for how to fix a gummy smile is just a starting point. Before deciding which method is best for you, talk to your dental specialist.
Photo by Julia Avamotive
