Are you worried about feeling uncomfortable showing too much gum when smiling? If so, you may be experiencing what's known as a
gingival smile, a condition that affects a considerable percentage of the population.
In this article, we will explain
what a gingival smile is,
what causes it, and what treatments are available to correct it. Plus, we'll give you some
tips to help you improve your smile, and invite you to explore the options that
Icon Dental has to help you regain your natural smile.
What is a gingival smile?
A gingival smile, also known as
excess gum or a
high smile, is characterized by excessive exposure of the gum when smiling. This may be due to different factors, such as:
- Short upper lip or hypermobility: When the upper lip is short or raised too much when smiling, you can see how the gums are more noticeable than normal.
- Passive altered eruption: In some of the cases, the upper teeth do not erupt like they should, which makes the gum appear more prominent.
- Low tooth position: If the upper teeth are positioned too low, you can also see more gum when you smile.
- Long jaw: Excessively long upper jaw in relation to the rest of the face can also contribute to a gingival smile.
- Gum hypertrophy: Gum overgrowth, often due to inflammation, can also lead to a gingival smile.
How do I know if I have a gingival smile?
If you're worried that you might have a gingival smile, you may notice some signs such as:
More than 3 mm of gum is exposed above the edge of the upper lip when smiling.
The smile appears "square" due to excessive gum exposure.
If you have any of these signs, it's best to see a dentist to get an accurate diagnosis and determine the cause of the gingival smile. At
Icon Dental, we will be happy to assist you.
What treatments are available for a gingival smile?
Treatment for a gingival smile will depend on the cause, but some of the most common options include:
Gingivectomy
It is a surgical procedure which consists of removing the excess gum to improve the ratio between the gum and the teeth.
Orthodontics
In cases where the position of the teeth is the cause of the gingival smile, orthodontics can help relocate them to a more favorable position.
Orthognathic surgery
If the problem lies in an excessively long jaw, orthognathic surgery may be the option to correct it.
What can I do to improve my gingival smile?
In addition to medical or dental treatment, there are some habits you can adopt to improve your gingival smile:
Take care of your oral hygiene
Brush your teeth three times a day and floss to keep your gums healthy and prevent inflammation.
Avoid smoking
Smoking can be a risk factor for gum disease, which can make a gingival smile worse.
See your dentist regularly
Regular dental checkups will allow you to detect and treat any oral health problems through time, including a gingival smile.
Icon Dental: Your ally for a radiant smile
At Icon Dental, we have a team of highly trained professionals with extensive experience in the treatment of gingival smile, they are ready to help you bring back your natural smile.
Schedule an appointment with us and discover the options we have for you.
Don't let your gingival smile limit you! Remember that a radiant smile can Improve your self-esteem and quality of life.
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