A gummy smile is when too much gum tissue shows when smiling. Although not a medical issue, it can make people feel embarrassed. Orthodontic procedures such as braces and Invisalign can enhance the look of a gummy smile by moving the teeth and jaw. If you are looking to have a gummy smile treatment in Santa Clarita, knowing how orthodontics can do it is important.
What Causes a Gummy Smile?
A number of things can cause a gummy smile, including:
- Excess gum tissue: A person may be born with more gum tissue over their teeth.
- Jaw position: A disproportionately large upper jaw can lead to gums appearing more prominent.
- Short or diminutive teeth: Teeth that are too short as a result of genetics or wear can cause the gums to appear more prominent.
- Hyperactive upper lip: Others have an upper lip that rises too high when they smile, showing more gum tissue.
Orthodontics for gummy smile can treat some of these causes by enhancing the alignment of teeth and the bite.
How Braces Can Help a Gummy Smile
Teeth are moved into place using braces‘ brackets and wires. Sometimes a gummy smile can be reduced with braces by:
- Repositioning the teeth: The dental professional can achieve this result by moving the teeth downward to minimize visible gum tissue while smiling.
- Realignment of the bite: If the top jaw protrudes too far, braces realign the bite to reduce the exposure of gum.
- Enhancing overall alignment: Braces can make the smile more balanced by aligning the teeth.
Braces are usually recommended for those who have moderate to severe gummy smiles, particularly when the position of the jaw is involved.
How Invisalign Can Help a Gummy Smile
Invisalign employs clear aligners to move teeth into position step by step. Invisalign can also correct gummy smiles by:
- Intruding the front teeth: Slightly pushing the upper teeth forward can minimize gum exposure.
- Correcting the bite: An overbite or deep bite, which could be causing the gummy smile, can be corrected by Invisalign.
- Improving symmetry: A properly aligned smile automatically decreases excessive gum exposure.
Because Invisalign aligners are removable and almost invisible, they are the first choice of many teens and adults seeking an inconspicuous solution to correct their smile.
Invisalign vs. Braces for Gummy Smile: Which Is Better?
When comparing Invisalign vs. braces for a gummy smile, the right choice depends on the severity of the case.
- Braces are more suited for more complex cases with extreme tooth movement or jaw realignment.
- Invisalign would be ideal for mild to moderate cases in which minimal tooth movement is necessary to minimize gum exposure.
A consultation with an orthodontist will assist in deciding on the most suitable treatment for your case.
Non-Surgical Gummy Smile Treatment Options
For individuals who wish to undergo a non-surgical gummy smile treatment, the best among them is orthodontics. Non-surgical treatment options also involve:
- Botox injections: Can relax the upper lip so it doesn’t over-lift when smiling.
- Laser gum contouring: Reshapes and removes small quantities of excess gum tissue to achieve a balanced smile.
- Lip repositioning: A minor surgery that restricts the motion of the top lip.
While these treatments can be helpful, orthodontic treatment remains a long-term and natural solution for improving the aesthetics of a gummy smile.
Get the Perfect Smile with Smile Republic Orthodontics
If you are searching for a gummy smile treatment, Smile Republic Orthodontics provides individualized orthodontic treatments to improve your smile. With or without braces, or using Invisalign, our skilled orthodontist in Santa Clarita can assist you in having a balanced, self-assured smile. Schedule a consultation today and discover your choices!
