GUMMY SMILE
The amount of gum visible when smiling can vary from person to person due to various factors, such as tooth shape, lip position, gum height, etc. Some individuals may find that their gummy smile affects their self-confidence and facial aesthetics, while others may not be concerned about this feature.
There are several possible causes of a gummy smile, including excessive gum growth, abnormal tooth position, overactive upper lip elevator muscles, or a combination of these factors.
What are the different types of gummy smile surgery?
Causes of Gummy Smile
Excessive gum growth: An increase in gum size can be due to genetic factors, oral health problems, or side effects of certain medications.
Abnormal tooth position: Teeth that emerge too low in relation to the lip line can lead to a gummy smile.
Overactive upper lip elevator muscles: Some individuals have excessive muscle activity in the upper lip region, causing excessive lifting when smiling.
Bone problems: Abnormalities in the jaw bones can contribute to a gummy smile.
Evaluation and Diagnosis:
A dental professional, such as a dentist or oral and maxillofacial surgeon, will perform a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying cause of the gummy smile. This may include clinical examinations, x-rays, and other diagnostic tests.
Gingivectomy
This procedure involves surgically removing excess gum tissue. It is often used when excessive gum growth is the primary cause of a gummy smile.
Gingivoplasty
Unlike gingivectomy, which focuses on removing excess tissue, gingivoplasty aims to surgically reshape the contours of the gums to achieve a more aesthetic appearance.
Maxillary osteotomy
Sometimes, a gummy smile can be related to the abnormal position of the jaw bones. Maxillary osteotomy is a surgical procedure that can be performed to reposition the bones and thus reduce the height of the gum visible when smiling.
Lip repositioning
This procedure involves altering the position of the upper lip to reduce excessive gum exposure. It can be combined with other surgical procedures or performed alone depending on the clinical situation.
Orthognathic surgery
In some cases, a gummy smile may be related to malocclusion or jaw position issues. Orthognathic surgery aims to correct these abnormalities by adjusting the position of the jaws.
What are the scars left by gummy smile surgery?
The presence of scars after gummy smile surgery depends on the specific type of procedure performed. Some surgeries may leave scars, while others are designed to minimize visible scarring. Here are some examples of procedures and their effects on scars:
Gingivectomy:
During a gingivectomy, where part of the gum is surgically removed, scarring is possible. However, dental surgeons generally aim to minimize scarring by making precise incisions and using proper suturing techniques.
Gingivoplasty:
This gum contouring procedure can also result in scarring, although the incisions are often designed to be discreet. Healing can vary from person to person.
Lip repositioning:
This surgical procedure alters the position of the upper lip to reduce gum exposure. Scars depend on the technique used, but they are generally placed to minimize visibility.
Orthognathic surgery:
If a gummy smile is related to jaw position issues, orthognathic surgery may be considered. Incisions are usually made inside the mouth to minimize visible scarring.
Before/After Simulations of an operation on the gummy smile.
