A beautiful smile can light up a room and boost one’s self confidence. For those with a gummy smile, excessive gum tissue can overshadow their teeth – affecting their self-esteem. Fortunately, advancements in both dentistry and dermatology provide innovative and effective solutions for this concern. This article explores the intersection of dentistry and dermatology to transform gummy smiles into beautiful smiles.
What is a gummy smile?
A gummy smile is when a significant portion of gum tissue is exposed above the upper teeth when a person smiles, causing an imbalance between teeth and gums. Possible causes include excessive gum tissue, abnormal tooth eruption, a hyperactive upper lip, or an overgrown maxilla. Though the underlying causes may differ, the collaboration between dentistry and dermatology allows for a multi-dimensional approach to address this concern comprehensively.
Dental Intervention:
Dentists can correct gummy smiles by examining the underlying causes and recommending appropriate treatments. Some common dental procedures to fix gummy smiles include:
Gingivectomy: When the primary concern is excess gum tissue, a gingivectomy may be performed. This procedure involves the removal of excess gum tissue to reveal more of the tooth structure. This creates a more balanced and proportional appearance between the teeth and gums.
Crown Lengthening: This procedure reshapes the gum line and if necessary, removes small amounts of bone to expose more of the tooth’s surface. This makes the teeth appear longer, enhancing proportions of the teeth, and reducing the appearance of a gummy smile.
Dermatological Intervention:
In certain cases, gummy smiles can also be treated through dermatological intervention. Cosmetic dermatologists offer the following treatments to complement dental procedures:
Botox Injections: A hyperactive upper lip can cause excessive elevation while smiling, revealing more gum tissue. Dermatologists can administer Botox injections to relax the muscles responsible for this movement, resulting in a less prominent gummy smile.
Dermal Fillers: Dermatologists also inject dermal fillers to specific areas, adding volume and shape to the lips. This technique enhances lip proportions, creating a more aesthetically pleasing smile.
Collaborative Treatment Planning:
The key to successfully fixing a gummy smile involves collaborative treatment planning between dentists and dermatologists. Together, these professionals can customize a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to the patient’s specific needs. This approach takes into account multiple factors including oral health, facial aesthetics, and desired results to create a custom treatment plan.
Conclusion:
A gummy smile can be treated through the collaborative efforts of dentistry and dermatology. This multi-dimensional approach can address excessive gum tissue, control lip movement, and improve overall facial aesthetics. If you’re looking for a solution for a gummy smile, consult with professionals from both fields to achieve a confident and radiant smile.
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