When you smile and too much of your gum tissue shows on the top teeth, this is referred to as a gummy smile. This condition often leaves patients very self concious about their smile. What a lot of people do not realize is a gummy smile can actually be fixed. Even though it is based on perception, when the exposed gum tissues measures around 3 millimeters or more, this may be considered an excess amount of visible gum tissue.
Gummy smiles are more prevalent in women and are caused by many things. The most common causes include:
- An upper jawbone that is longer than normal
- When teeth have erupted improperly
- Hyperactive upper lip
- An upper lip that is too short
- Teeth that are small compared to the gums because of genetics or worn down teeth
- Gingival hypertrophy (long or enlarged gums)
Gummy smiles can present more than just cosmetic concerns. When the gum line is low or covers a large surface area of the teeth, it can be difficult for patients to receive the dental care they need. Treating gummy smiles can help improve the health and aesthetics of the smile.
Timonium orthodontist Dr. Mohammad Izadi offers comprehensive treatment plans designed to improve the contour and aesthetics of the gums. Using innovative dental technology, Izadi Orthodontics helps patients to restore the appearance and health of their gums without the need for oral surgery or other invasive treatments.
How to Fix a Gummy Smile
Gummy smiles can detract from the appearance of the smile and create potential health risks. Treating gummy smiles with laser therapy reduces the risk of developing oral health concerns and improves the aesthetics of the teeth and gums.
Izadi Orthodontics uses laser therapy for soft tissue treatments and gum contouring. Traditional methods to remove gum tissue were painful and required long periods of recovery time. The tissue was actually cut away, repositioned, and then stitched up.
State-of-the-art laser therapy allows for less invasive, more precise treatment of soft tissue dental concerns. Laser treatments reduce swelling and bleeding and eliminate the need for sutures. The innovative technology promotes the body’s natural healing response reducing downtime and discomfort.
We will begin the procedure by numbing the areas being treated. When you are comfortable, Dr. Izadi will use the laser to shorten and reshape your gum tissue. Since a laser will seal off the blood vessels, there will be little to no bleeding. Dr. Izadi’s natural eye for facial aesthetics and advanced training help him to provide patients with natural results that promote healthy smiles. After the procedure, the patient is left with an aesthetically pleasing smile. Our helpful staff will give you directions on how to care for your gums following the procedure.
Areas We Serve
Our office is located off of Padonia Road in Timonium, MD. We welcome patients from many local communities, including Mays Chapel, Lutherville, Cockeysville, and the Falls Road Corridor. Begin your orthodontic treatment by contacting our office at (410) 919-9806 or request a consultation online, and we will respond to you personally.