excessive gingival display treatments

Concerns

Excessive Gingival Display Concerns

A gummy smile shows excess gum when smiling and may be treatable.

Gummy Smile Treatment Options in Perth

A gummy smile refers to the appearance of excessive upper gum visibility when smiling. This is a common aesthetic concern and may result from a variety of causes, including lip movement, gum prominence, or tooth proportions.

What Causes a Gummy Smile?

A gummy smile can occur due to:

  • Overactive upper lip muscles

  • Short or worn-down teeth

  • Increased gum tissue (gingival overgrowth)

  • A higher lip line or short upper lip

  • Skeletal or jaw positioning

A professional assessment is recommended to identify the contributing factor(s) before considering treatment.

Gummy Smile Treatment Options

Depending on the cause, treatment may include:

A surgical lip flip is a procedure designed to reduce upper gum visibility by altering the way the upper lip rests and moves. It involves adjusting the position of the lip to create more coverage over the gums when smiling. This option may be considered when other non-surgical options are not suitable or if a longer-term result is desired.

  • Referral for dental or periodontal treatments

In cases related to gum prominence or tooth shape, referral to a dental or periodontal specialist may be recommended.

Understanding a Gummy Smile

A gummy smile refers to when a significant portion of the upper gums is visible when smiling. This is a common aesthetic concern and can be related to the way the upper lip moves, how the teeth are positioned, or the amount of gum tissue exposed.

At Absolute Cosmetic in Perth, we offer treatment options tailored to the underlying cause, guided by an in-depth consultation.

What Can Contribute to a Gummy Smile?

  • Overactive Upper Lip Muscles
    In some individuals, the muscles that elevate the upper lip are highly active, causing the lip to rise higher than usual when smiling.

  • Tooth and Gum Proportions
    Teeth that are naturally small or worn down can make gums appear more prominent, particularly if there is excess gum tissue.

  • Jaw or Lip Position
    A short upper lip or a prominent upper jaw (vertical maxillary excess) may contribute to more gum visibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

A consultation includes an examination of your facial structure, lip movement, and dental proportions to help determine the likely cause. This guides the recommended treatment.

Most non-surgical treatments involve minimal downtime but Surgical options will require some downtime. Any potential side effects or aftercare instructions will be discussed during your consultation.

The goal of treatment is to reduce gum visibility while maintaining a balanced, natural smile. This will be tailored to your individual anatomy and preferences.

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Dr. Glenn Murray (MED0001196978) Medical Director | MBBS | FRACGP | MIT AI (Health) Cert. (AHPRA Registration MED0001196978) Registered Medical Practitioner,... Specialist General Practitioner (specialist registration in general practice). General disclaimer: Patient outcomes can vary due to factors such as genetics, diet, age, exercise, lifestyle, weight, and overall health. It’s essential to understand that all invasive surgeries come with inherent risks and require a recovery period and specific care regimen. Detailed information regarding surgical risks and complications is available here, but it is advisable to conduct thorough research and obtain a second opinion to ensure you are able to make an informed decision. Please note that the information provided is general in nature and does not constitute medical advice or establish a doctor-patient relationship. For real patient images, please visit our Before and After page. Please be advised that surgical outcomes vary, from patient to patient, and comprehensive research is crucial before making any decisions. This website contains imagery which is only suitable for audiences 18+.

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