How Do Dentists Address Gummy Smiles Without Surgery?

Gummy smiles are smiles when too much gum shows when someone smiles. People with gummy smiles often feel self-conscious and under-confident when speaking or smiling in public. While there are surgeries available for the same, such as gingivectomy or lip repositioning, Fontana residents are exploring non-surgical treatments to fix the problem. 

The good news is that achieving a non-gummy smile has become easier now, thanks to dentists using less invasive methods. Some treatments include dental bonding, braces, or even Botox. Dental bonding involves adding a tooth-colored material to the teeth to make them look longer. Braces can move the teeth into better positions to show less gum. 

Botox injections are used around the mouth to stop too much gum from showing when smiling. If you are looking to fix your gummy smile without surgery, it is best to visit a Family dentist in Fontana, CA, and consult with them. Whether you want non-surgical treatments or just want to learn more about gummy smiles, talking to a professional helps significantly. 

Non-surgical treatment options for gummy smiles 

Botox injections 

Botox injections are a common way to treat a gummy smile without surgery. Botox is injected into the muscles above the upper lip to stop the lip from moving too high when smiling. This reduces how much gum is shown when smiling. It makes the smile look better by showing more teeth and less gum. The treatment is quick, usually taking less than 15 minutes.  

Laser gum contouring 

Laser gum contouring is a simple and modern procedure that uses a laser to reshape the gum line. It removes excess gum tissue without needing cuts or stitches, making it easier and less scary than traditional gum surgery. One big benefit of laser gum contouring is that recovery time is much shorter compared to traditional methods.

Porcelain veneers

Porcelain veneers are thin shells made of high-quality ceramic that cover the front of the teeth. After consultation, if the dentist says that veneers are a good choice for your case, a small amount of enamel is usually removed from the front of the teeth. After that, custom veneers are made to fit the person’s mouth. Finally, they are bonded to the teeth using a strong adhesive.

Braces and clear aligners 

For individuals with gummy smiles, orthodontic treatment can be used to reposition the teeth and upper jaw to reduce visible gum tissue when smiling. Braces are a traditional approach, where metal brackets are attached to your teeth. They are tightened over time, and the teeth shift from their places to improve the appearance of your smile. 

On the other hand, clear aligners are more modern. They are transparent and offer a more discreet alternative to traditional braces. These are custom-made to fit over the teeth, and gentle pressure is applied to shift them into the desired positions gradually.

Mouthguards for retainers!

Retainers can help reposition the upper jaw and teeth to reduce the amount of gum visible when they smile. They guide the jaw into a more balanced position as treatment progresses. In some cases, retainers may be specifically designed to apply gentle forces that gradually adjust the position of the upper jaw. This reduces the appearance of excessive gum exposure. 

Post-treatment retainers also play a critical role in maintaining the results achieved during the orthodontic treatment. Retainers ensure that the treatment’s aesthetic outcomes last for a long time. It is important for the patient to consistently use their retainer to prevent the regression of the improvements achieved through braces or aligners. 

Concerned about your gummy smile?

If you are concerned about your gummy smile, the good news is that there are various non-surgical options for you to explore. However, in certain severe cases where the gum tissues are significant, your dentist might recommend surgery. Visit a dentist today!