If you flash your smile in the mirror and all you notice is the overpowering appearance of your gums, you may have a “gummy smile.” A gummy smile is a common concern. It can be traced back to an oral health issue, but in many cases it is simply an aesthetic drawback. The good news is that a skilled cosmetic dentist can typically correct your gummy smile so that you can properly show off your pearly whites more than the surrounding fleshy gum tissue.

Is it strictly cosmetic?

In order for your dentist to perform the right treatment for your gummy smile, it is important to first determine the reason your gums are overly visible. It could be more than an aesthetic issue. For example, if you have gum disease, your gums may become swollen or puffy in response to the infection. In this case, periodontal therapy should be initiated.

For patients who have struggled with a gummy smile for many years, it is most likely a result of disproportion. When the lips and teeth are out of balance, the gums can show more than normal. Similarly, undersized teeth can also produce a gummy smile. Your dentist can properly diagnose the cause of your concern and recommend a solution.

What is Gum Contouring?

While it is not always possible to make the teeth bigger or adjust the size of the lips, there is a way to alter the shape and height of your gums. Gum contouring is a straightforward cosmetic procedure that gently improves the gum tissues in order to create ideal proportion or balance between the teeth and the lips. Patients can typically expect 2-3 visits to achieve final results.

Other Options

If gum contouring is not possible or if the procedure will compromise the health of your teeth, there are other solutions available to correct your gummy smile. Some patients choose dental crowns or porcelain veneers to make their front teeth look larger. Inevitably, the gums will then appear smaller and less noticeable.

Don’t let your gummy smile ruin your self-confidence. Soft Touch Dentistry offers advanced techniques in cosmetic dentistry to ensure your smile is beautiful and balanced. Call today to learn more about gum contouring or veneers.

Posted on behalf of Dr. Sarah Thompson, Soft Touch Dentistry
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