Are there any options for treating my severely gummy smile? (photo)

Question

I have a very severe gummy smile. I also have an overbite. The amount of gum I expose when I smile really bothers me, and I would like to have it fixed. I had braces when I was a teenager but those did not do much to correct my overbite. What would be the best options to correct my smile permanently?

Scott Young, DDS · Answer

There are two procedures necessary to decrease the amount of gum tissue that shows when you smile.  1.  Slight laser gum recontouring to give your teeth the perfect height/width ratio.  This is an easy procedure with little to no postoperative discomfort.  2.  A lip lowering procedure to reduce how high your lip rises when you smile.  This must be done by a plastic surgeon and can dramatically improve the appearance of your smile.

Mona Goodarzi, DDS · Answer

a conservative approach is to try botox.  by paralyzing the upper lip's levator muscles you will drop down the upper lip on smiling dramatically, it you see the results you're happy with on botox, then you can have a minor surgery by a trained dentist or surgeon to cut those muscle fibers permanently.  this is a very conservative approach if you elect not to correct the overbite and have major surgical procedures.

Majid Jamali, DMD · Answer

Your condition  is called maxillary excess. The upper jaw grows down and takes the mandible (lower jaw) with it. It can easily be corrected by surgically positioning the upper jaw. You may or may not need the lower jaw surgery as well. Have to start by seeing a board certified orthodontist or orthognathic surgeon.

Eric Linden, DMD, MSD · Answer

If you are a candidate laser surgery is a great option. You would need an examination by a qualified laser periodontist with a full series of digital x rays to determine the best option and the best laser to use.There are multiple wavelength lasers and the choice depends on your clinical exam and treatment objectives.

Are there any options for treating my severely gummy smile? (photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Laser Cosmetic Gum Surgery

Answer: Laser Cosmetic Gum Surgery

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Gum Lift

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

Are there any options for treating my severely gummy smile? (photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Laser Cosmetic Gum Surgery

Answer: Laser Cosmetic Gum Surgery

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Gum Lift

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