Can I get away w/ just Veneers instead of gum contouring and Veneers? Added 4 photos that my original post didn't have. (photo)

Question

I have a gummy smile that I want to improve. I have been seeking the help of a couple of dentists for about a year. One wanted to do the scapel surgery and another said thAt my gums are not terrible and I can either consult another dentist that has the laser for reshaping or just do veneers. I also have small teeth like my mother. I am diabetic and I don't want to go thought the pain and chance of not healing properly. Cosmetic dentists, can a simple placement of veneers help me?

Myra Brennan, DMD · Answer

The appearance of a gummy smile can be the result of the upper lip movement when smiling, talking, laughing, etc... OR various forms of altered eruption patterns (e.g.passive, active, compensatory, delayed). If the gummy smile is a result of lip mobility, treatments such as Botox have been effective in reducing the amount of vertical lip movement. If it is a result of altered eruption, a gum specialist (aka periodontist) will be able to evaluate and recommend appropriate treatment before the treatment with veneers begins. Typically, the excessive gum tissue is removed to expose more of the tooth by a periodontist or trained dentist. There are a variety of method to this. So before you begin, it's best to ask your dentist to confirm the etiology of your gummy smile with a periodontist in ordered to plan how to achieve the best aesthetic result with your new smile!

Tania Baker, DDS · Answer

Find a dentist that can use laser to reshape your gums. Don't be afraid of the healing because you are diabetic. You will heal just fine. Don't let anybody convince you to do a scalpel surgery on your gums. You will heal slow and develop a scar tissue and its going to be worst. Veneers are an option only after reshaping the gums, so called "smile lift" and can't substitute for gum reshaping and they are more invasive and way more expensive. Good luck!

Can I get away w/ just Veneers instead of gum contouring and Veneers? Added 4 photos that my original post didn't have. (photo)

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Can I get away w/ just Veneers instead of gum contouring and Veneers? Added 4 photos that my original post didn't have. (photo)

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Everything you need to know about Porcelain Veneers

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.