Dentistry for a Gummy Smile
Northern Virginia including Tysons Corner, Fairfax, Reston, Alexandria, Arlington, Washington D.C. and surrounding areas
If you suffer from a “gummy smile,” your teeth may look small or misaligned. Well-contoured gums make your teeth look straight and aesthetically pleasing. If your teeth appear too short because of excessive gum tissue, laser gum recontouring may be right for you.
At Softouch Dental Care in Oakton, Virginia, you do not have to live with an unattractive, gummy smile. Our knowledgeable dental team is devoted to oral health and aesthetically-pleasing results.
Gum Recontouring Procedure
Laser gum contouring removes your excessive gum tissue to expose more of your tooth and create an even gum line and attractive smile. This procedure uses a gingivectomy, which is the removal of excessive gums and possibly a gingivoplasty, which thins and reshapes the outer surface of your gums. A gingivoplasty is used when your excessive gum tissue is removed, but your gums still look bulky and thick.
Gum recontouring is performed with a dental laser, which is painless and does not use sutures. In several weeks, your gum tissue will heal on its own, leaving you with an attractive smile.
Crown Lengthening
If your teeth still appear small after your excessive gum tissue is removed, a crown lengthening procedure may be performed. This treatment involves the removal of underlying bone, which lengthens the appearance of your teeth and prepares them for the placement of dental crowns or porcelain veneers.
What Causes a Gummy Smile?
A “gummy smile” may be the result of several factors, including:
- Short upper lips, which creates the appearance of short teeth.
- Jaw grinding (called bruxism) while you are sleeping.
- A long upper jaw bone, which can make your gums seem larger or longer than normal.
- A high lip line, which can be corrected by surgery to limit the movement of your upper lip (which is responsible for your gummy smile).
Types of Gummy Smiles
There are different types of gummy smiles. Single teeth, groups of teeth or your entire smile may be impacted by excessive gum tissue. You may be unhappy with the amount of gum tissue displayed above your front teeth or side teeth when you smile.
Your gum recontouring procedure should be planned carefully, taking into consideration the shape, position and color of your teeth.
During your consultation, Northern Virginia cosmetic dentist Dr. Michael Chung will examine your mouth, and recommend best treatment for your situation and cosmetic dental goals.
If you would like to correct your gummy smile, please contact our Northern Virginia cosmetic dentistry to arrange your smile analysis with Dr. Michael K. Chung. Softouch Dental Care serves patients in Alexandria, Arlington, Washington D.C., Oakton, Tysons Corner, Reston, Fairfax and the Northern Virginia area.