Excessive gingival display is a common smile imperfection also referred to as a 'gummy smile'. Although it is not an oral health issue, a gummy smile can affect a patient’s confidence and self-esteem and cause them to smile less often.
Lip repositioning is an advanced and minimally invasive technique we use at Gardens Dental Spa as an alternative to more invasive procedures such as orthognathic surgery. It restricts the movement of the elevator lip muscles to reduce the amount of gum displayed when the patient is laughing or smiling. The procedure is quick and performed under local anesthesia to ensure your comfort.
What Is a Gummy Smile?
A beautiful smile can make you feel confident and happy. However, certain imperfections such as showing too much gum tissue when you smile may make you feel self-conscious and cause you to hide your smile or avoid it altogether.
A gummy smile is medically known as excessive gingival display. It refers to a smile that reveals an excessive amount of gum tissue under the top lip. It can be caused by a number of issues, including:
- The size and shape of the teeth
- An overactive upper lip muscle
- A short upper lip
- Partial or abnormal dental eruption that makes the teeth look shorter than they really are
- Gingival hypertrophy (gums that are too long or enlarged)
- Excessive wear and tear of the teeth
- Imbalance of teeth-to-gum ratio
Who Is a Good Candidate for Lip Repositioning?
Anyone who is unhappy with their ‘gummy smile’ may be a good candidate for lip repositioning. Patients considering this procedure should be in generally good health and understand the advantages and disadvantages of the lip repositioning procedure.
Our dentists can help determine if lip repositioning is the right treatment for your aesthetic needs when you visit us for a consultation. They can also explain the benefits and steps of the procedure so that you can make an informed decision.
The Lip Repositioning Procedure
Before the procedure, the dentist will explain what you can expect and provide the necessary pre-op instructions. You will also have a chance to ask questions and clarify any concerns you may have.
The lip repositioning procedure is performed under local anesthesia so that you do not feel any pain or discomfort. Once the area is numb, the dentist will make an incision and excise a small portion of tissue from under the upper lip. As a result, the upper lip will no longer rise more than usual, and your smile will be more balanced and harmonious.
The dentist will make a suture to ensure proper healing and provide post-op instructions and details about any required follow-up appointments. The entire procedure takes about 45 to 60 minutes.
The Advantages of Lip Repositioning Surgery
- It is an outpatient procedure performed under local anesthesia
- Provides quick results for patients with gummy smiles
- Provides a harmonious smile by balancing the teeth-to-gum ratio
- It instantly boosts a patient's self-esteem
- Leaves no visible scarring
To learn more about the advanced cosmetic dentistry treatments and procedures we offer at Gardens Dental Spa, call (561) 799-7791 or visit us at 11380 Prosperity Farms Rd #108, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410.