Correcting a Gummy Smile
The techniques used to correct a gummy smile have improved significantly in recent years. In contrast to the traditional gummy smile treatment method that involved breaking the upper jaw to remove bone sections, today a less invasive solution is available. One popular gummy smile surgery treatment, known as "hypermobile lip surgery," lowers the existing lip line and limits excessive upward movement when a person smiles. As a result, patients can enjoy improved facial symmetry and a more attractive smile.
What Is a Gummy Smile?
A natural smile exposes a small amount of gum tissue near the teeth roots. Gummy smiles display a large, unattractive section of visible gum tissue when the person smiles. People who suffer from this condition often feel embarrassed or self-conscious.
What Causes a Gummy Smile?
Gummy smiles may result from one or more factors, such as overgrown gum tissue, an overly high lip line, and/or unusually short teeth. In addition, the upper lip may contract when the person smiles, making it very thin and unable to cover the gum line.
Treatment Options
Patients can choose from three treatment options to correct their gummy smile:
- Crown Lengthening, which involves reshaping and removal of the gum and bone to lengthen the teeth's visibility.
- Hypermobile Lip Surgery, which limits the lip's upward movement to minimize gum tissue exposure.
- A combination of the above.
Hypermobile Lip Surgery
A relatively new innovation, hypermobile lip surgery repositions the upper lip in relation to the gum line. The procedure, which is much less invasive than traditional gum surgery methods, can significantly reduce the amount of visible gum tissue. Most people with gummy smiles can benefit from this treatment.
About the Procedure
Local anesthesia is used to perform lip surgery. The incisions are made inside the upper lip tissue that connects the lip to the gums. The doctor then reattaches the tissue beneath the lip to move it closer to the teeth utilizing a special surgical method to stabilize the lip in a new position. This technique will minimize displaying of excessive gum tissue and restricts the lip's vertical movement for a more attractive smile.
Recovery
Very few risks are associated with this procedure, with minimal downtime. Patients may experience some post-surgery soreness and swelling and feel as if their lips are slightly tighter. However, the procedure does not impair speech, and any minor discomfort generally dissipates with time and has no negative impact on the appearance of the face. The gums usually heal within a few days or weeks, depending on the individual.
Results
Hypermobile lip surgery is effective for most people. Results include a more natural lip position and less exposed gum tissue when smiling. The level of improvement varies from person to person and depends on the complexity of the case.
Combined Approaches
Some patients, particularly those with multiple conditions, may require a combination of procedures to achieve the best results. In addition to lip surgery, a dentist or periodontist may recommend crown lengthening, gum line leveling, or gum line reshaping as needed.
Questions and Answers
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