When is Surgery Needed to Treat Gummy Smiles?

A gummy smile is a smile in which the appearance of the teeth and gums appears to be imbalanced. The gums may have grown over the teeth, or the lip may pull back too far. In some cases, excessive growth of the jaw can lead to a gummy smile. Although a gummy smile is generally benign, surgery may be needed in some cases. We generally recommend surgery for those whose gummy smiles are making them feel self-conscious about their appearance.

 

The procedure can vary based on the cause of the excess gum tissue. If you simply have too much gum tissue, you may need a crown lengthening procedure, which exposes more of the tooth’s crown. This can be done on one or several teeth for an even, attractive look. Lip lowering is another option that is usually recommended for those with hyperactive lip muscles. Less commonly, orthognatic or jaw surgery may be needed to correct serious structural problems.

 

Surgery for gummy smile surgery  can give you the smile that you have always wanted. Most patients can complete treatment in a single appointment and enjoy a fast, easy recovery. The results are permanent. Give us a call today to learn more about gummy smile treatment options or to schedule your appointment.