Get Rid of Your Gummy Smile
A “gummy” smile is a common dental problem that occurs when you have too much gum tissue showing when smiling. Fortunately, there are treatments available to resolve this issue and give you the beautiful smile you deserve. If you are experiencing this problem, our dentistry office would love to help.
What Causes a Gummy Smile?
There are several different issues that can cause a gummy smile. For example, you may have a gummy smile if your upper lip is shorter than it should be, or if you have teeth that are small in comparison to your gums. You may also have a gummy smile if you have teeth that haven’t erupted properly, causing them to remain partially covered by your gum tissue. In addition, an overgrowth of the upper jaw and/or enlarged gums may also lead to a gummy smile.
How Can a Gummy Smile be Treated?
Several procedures can be used to treat a gummy smile. One of the most popular options chosen by patients is gingival recontouring. This treatment involves removing some of the excess gum tissue from each tooth that is causing you to have a gummy smile. This procedure may be performed with lasers or a scalpel, depending on the specifics.
Is the Procedure Painful?
Gingival recontouring can cause some pain, especially if a significant amount of gum tissue needs to be removed. However, medication will be used to provide pain relief during the procedure. You may also receive a prescription for additional pain relievers to take at home. In addition, you can use ice packs during your recovery to reduce the swelling and any discomfort you experience.
Recovery time will be shorter for patients who are treated with a laser than for patients who are treated with a scalpel. During your recovery, you will need to be careful about what you eat, avoiding any foods that could damage or irritate the treated areas. You may also need to use an antibiotic rinse to prevent an infection of the gums.
Call Us Today
Coliseum Dental Walnut Creek in Walnut Creek is proud to offer gingival reconstruction, as well as other treatments for patients with a gummy smile. Please call our office today at 925-939-4989 to make an appointment with a trusted dentist.
