Summary: A gummy smile occurs when too much gum tissue shows above the teeth during smiling. There are multiple treatment options for gummy smiles including gum contouring, lip repositioning surgery, and orthodontic or skeletal solutions. The expert periodontal team at Vista Dental Group – North Raleigh, led by Dr. Bhagat, are ready to treat gummy smiles no matter the cause.
A simple smile is anything but simple. This universal expression can have a major impact on your wellness, relationships, and productivity. When you feel less-than-confident about your grin it can hold you back from having the life you want.
For many people, a gummy smile—which occurs when too much gum tissue shows above the teeth—can cause self-consciousness, reduced self-esteem an even effect oral health. The good news is, there’s a solution, right in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Vista Dental Group in North Raleigh is home to the region’s leading expert in gummy smile treatment. Dr. Ronak Bhagat is a board-certified periodontist known for his exceptional skill and dedication to patient-centered care. Dr. Bhagat provides his North Raleigh patients with specialized gummy smile solutions so they can gain the confidence and ease they’re looking for.
What Is a Gummy Smile?
A gummy smile—known clinically as “excessive gum display”—is a condition where too much gum tissue is exposed when you smile. The causes of a gummy smile vary but can include:
- Excess gum tissue covering teeth
- Hyperactive upper lip
- Small teeth
- Altered eruption (improper gum positioning)
- Jaw growth or skeletal alignment issues
Our Vista practice in North Raleigh is ready to treat a gummy smile no matter the cause. In fact, we work with you to determine the best course of treatment based on your case and goals so you can achieve the smile of your dreams.
How Periodontists in North Raleigh Fix a Gummy Smile
There are multiple approaches to fixing a gummy smile. The best method for you depends on the cause of your excessive gum display. Our North Raleigh periodontist, Dr. Bhagat, is an expert on gum tissue and can walk you through the specifics of your case and your treatment options. These options may include:
Gum Contouring (Gingivectomy or Crown Lengthening):
- If excess gum tissue is covering more of your teeth than is typical, our periodontist Dr. Bhagat can gently reshape the gumline with cutting-edge laser or surgical tools.
- This treatment is designed to expose more of your natural tooth structure and balance your smile.
- In some cases, crown lengthening may also involve reshaping the underlying bone to ensure gums heal in the correct position.
Lip Repositioning Surgery
- If your gummy smile is caused by a hyperactive upper lip that lifts too high when smiling, a minor surgical procedure can reposition the lip so it doesn’t rise as much.
- This reduces gum exposure but won’t affect speech or function.
Orthodontic or Skeletal Solutions
- If the gummy smile is due to jaw position or excessive vertical growth of the upper jaw, Dr. Bhagat may work with an orthodontist or oral surgeon.
- In some cases, jaw—otherwise known as orthognathic—surgery is recommended. However, this treatment course is rare and only recommended in severe cases.
What to Expect from Gummy Smile Treatment
At Vista Dental Group – North Raleigh, you’ll receive expert oral care in an atmosphere of comfort and relaxation. In fact, we offer a variety of comfort and sedation options to ensure that you receive the right level of attention and support throughout your experience.
Typically, gummy smile treatment involves a thorough consultation, local anesthesia, and is minimally invasive. You may even be surprised at how quickly you can return to normal activities following your procedure!
Our treatments are aimed at providing you with long-lasting improvements. When you work with Dr. Bhagat and his periodontal team, you’ll enjoy smile restoration and confidence that can last a lifetime
FAQs About Gummy Smiles
What is a gummy smile?
A gummy smile is when too much gum tissue shows above the teeth when you smile. Dentists may also call this “excessive gum display.”
What causes a gummy smile?
Common causes include extra gum tissue covering the teeth, a short upper lip, small teeth, or jaw development that exposes more gum than normal.
How do North Raleigh periodontists fix a gummy smile?
Periodontists can reshape gum tissue with procedures like crown lengthening, laser gum contouring, or lip repositioning. In some cases, orthodontics may also be recommended.
Is gummy smile treatment painful?
Most treatments use local anesthesia or laser technology, which makes the procedure minimally uncomfortable. Recovery is usually quick.
How long does gummy smile treatment last?
Results are typically permanent. Once the gums are reshaped or repositioned, they don’t usually grow back, although maintaining good oral health is essential.
Vista is Your Trusted Provider for Periodontal Services in North Raleigh
Gummy smiles are common and treatable. And when you’re in the capable hands of a skilled periodontist like Dr. Bhagat, you can rest assured that you’ll achieve the balanced, healthy smile you’re looking for in an environment of trust and compassion.
If you’re ready to gain more confidence, self-esteem and an effortless grin, schedule your consultation with our periodontal team at Vista Dental Group – North Raleigh today.