How To Fix a Gummy Smile? Causes and Treatments

How To Fix a Gummy Smile

A beautiful smile is a powerful asset, but for those dealing with a gummy smile, the excess gum exposure can impact confidence. In this guide, we’ll explore effective solutions for fixing a gummy smile and delve into the various methods of how to fix a gummy smile. Whether you’re seeking non-surgical options, considering braces, or exploring advanced treatments like Botox, we’ve got you covered. 

Understanding the Causes of Gummy Smile

Let’s dive deeper into the factors behind a gummy smile, uncovering the various causes that contribute to this common dental concern:

What is a Gummy Smile?

A gummy smile refers to the condition where an undue amount of gum tissue is visible when a person smiles, often overshadowing the teeth. To understand this condition better, let’s delve into the causes of gummy smiles:

  1. Genetics: The most common cause of excessive gingival display is genetic predisposition, where family traits may lead to excessive gum exposure when smiling.
  2. Tooth Eruption: Irregular tooth eruption or development can result in the gums covering a significant portion of the teeth this is also referred to as gummy teeth.
  3. Hyperactive Upper Lip Muscles: Overactivity in the muscles controlling the upper lip can cause it to rise higher than usual, exposing more gum tissue.
  4. Jaw Development Issues: Anomalies in jaw development include a protruding upper jaw.
  5. Short Teeth: Naturally, shorter teeth may lead to more visible gum tissue, especially when smiling.
  6. Gum Overgrowth: Some medications or health conditions can cause excessive gum tissue growth, resulting in a gummy smile.
  7. Misaligned Teeth: Teeth misalignment, including an improper bite, may contribute to the appearance of a gummy smile.

Examining Gummy Smile Treatment Modalities

Experience transformative gummy smile treatment for a confident and radiant smile. Following are some of the treatment options to consider:

  • Gummy Smile Botox Treatment

Gummy smile botox treatment is a minimally invasive solution for excessive gum exposure during smiling. This procedure relaxes muscle activity by injecting Botox into specific facial muscles, achieving a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing smile. The targeted approach minimises gum visibility without surgery, enhancing facial harmony and providing a confidence boost with minimal discomfort.

  • Digital Smile Design in Corrections

In the realm of modern dentistry, digital smile design plays a pivotal role in fixing a gummy smile or planning precise and personalised treatments for gummy smiles. Digital smile design (DSD) is an innovative cosmetic dentistry approach that ensures precise visual planning, seamless collaboration, and enhanced patient involvement.

With high-tech imaging and 3-D modelling, DSD allows dentists to analyse and optimise smiles with unprecedented accuracy. The procedure is cost-effective and provides natural-looking results, making it a sought-after choice for personalised and aesthetically pleasing smile corrections.

  • Before and After Transformations

Before treatment individuals experience excessive gum exposure, impacting smile aesthetics. Consultations assess the severity, considering options such as botox, filler, gum contouring, scaling and root planing,  digital design, lip surgery, crown lengthening, gummy smile implants or orthodontics.

However, post-treatment, individuals witness a transformed smile. Botox and filler reduce excessive gum exposure, enhancing facial harmony while scaling and root planing ensure optimal gum health. Digital design, lip surgery, gummy smile implants, etc., provide lasting improvements. 

  • Gingivectomy and Gum Contouring

Gingivectomy and gum contouring are cosmetic dental procedures aimed at reshaping the gum line for enhanced aesthetics. In a gingivectomy, excess gum tissue is removed, while gum contouring involves sculpting the gums to achieve a balanced appearance. These treatments are often chosen to correct gummy smiles, creating a harmonious balance between teeth and gums. With minimal discomfort and swift recovery, patients can enjoy a more proportionate and visually pleasing smile. 

  • Orthodontic Solutions

Orthodontic treatments, such as braces and aligners, are effective treatments for correcting gummy smiles. Braces gradually reposition teeth, optimising their alignment and reducing excessive gum exposure. Aligners offer a discreet alternative, providing incremental adjustments. These orthodontic interventions contribute to a well-balanced and aesthetically pleasing smile. 

Exploring Non-Surgical Avenues

Embark on a journey through non-surgical possibilities as we explore effective alternatives to address gummy smiles and enhance your dental aesthetics.

  • Laser Gum Contouring

Laser gum contouring, also known as a gum lift or gingival sculpting, is a minimally invasive dental procedure using advanced laser technology to reshape and recontour gum tissue. This treatment is ideal for individuals with a gummy smile or uneven gum lines. The precise laser allows targeted treatment, minimising discomfort and reducing recovery time. Benefits include improved precision, reduced pain, faster healing, and enhanced oral hygiene.

  • Dental Veneers and Crowns

For individuals seeking non-surgical gummy smile corrections, dental veneers and crowns offer effective restorative options. Veneers are thin shells covering the front surface of teeth, enhancing aesthetics and correcting imperfections. Crowns, or dental caps, encase the entire tooth for strength and appearance. It offers a comprehensive approach to achieving a balanced, radiant smile by addressing both tooth imperfections and gum aesthetics.

  • Lip Repositioning Surgery

While categorised as a surgical option, lip repositioning surgery for a gummy smile falls under minimally invasive procedures. It is a cosmetic procedure that enhances smiles by reducing excessive gingival display. Recommended for individuals with short or hyperactive lips and mild Vertical Maxillary Excess (VME), the surgery involves adjusting lip attachment points, resulting in a more balanced appearance. While recovery may include mild discomfort for about a week, the sutures are typically removed after two weeks. The procedure offers a long-lasting solution to improve the smile’s aesthetics by addressing the positioning of the lips to the gums.

What are Gummy Smile Correction Costs?

Gummy smile correction costs may vary based on individual cases, treatment plans, and geographical location. A detailed account of the factors that influence gummy smile correction costs are as follows:

Factors Influencing Costs

1. Treatment Type

Different treatment modalities come with varying costs. Expenses associated with options like gummy smile botox, dental veneers, crowns, orthodontic solutions, laser gum contouring, etc., have different costs.

2. Location

Geographical location plays a significant role in cost disparities. Prices can vary based on the region, city, or even the specific dental practice. For example, between urban and suburban areas, cost differences are exponential.

3. Complexity of the Case

The intricacy of each gummy smile case affects the overall expenses. Factors such as the severity of gum exposure, tooth alignment issues, and overall oral health impact treatment complexity.

4. Advanced Technologies

The impact of advanced technologies like digital smile design affects the costs. Cutting-edge techniques may contribute to precision in treatment planning, potentially affecting expenses.

5. Dental Professional Expertise

The role of the dental professional’s expertise highly determines costs. Experienced and reputable professionals may charge differently for their services.

6. Additional Procedures

Some cases may require supplementary procedures, such as preliminary treatments or follow-up adjustments. It can add additional costs.

7. Insurance Coverage

The dental insurance coverage has offsetting costs as it may vary based on the type of procedure and individual insurance plans.

Conclusion

Getting rid of a gummy smile is a journey to boost your confidence and enhance your looks. Discover top-notch dental care with skilled dentists in Sunshine Coast, ensuring your oral health and bright smiles.

Ready to take the next step for your dream smile? Book a consultation today with  Oris Dental and let your beautiful smile shine. Trust our experienced professionals to guide you in achieving the perfect smile!

FAQS 

Is gummy smile treatment painful? 

Gummy smile treatment discomfort varies. Non-surgical options like laser gum contouring are minimally painful, while surgical interventions for gingival hyperplasia or overgrown gums may involve more discomfort during recovery.

How much does a gummy smile treatment cost in Australia? 

Costs for treatment of gummy smiles in Australia depend on the procedure type, location, professional expertise, and insurance coverage. Consult a dental professional for personalised cost estimates.

Dr. Adarsh Pisharodi - Dentist at Oris Dental

Dr. Adarsh Pisharodi

Dr. Adarsh Pisharodi, serving as the principal dentist at Oris Dental, brings a wealth of expertise spanning over 26 years to his esteemed practice. Specializing in cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, and orthodontics, he takes immense pride in rejuvenating countless smiles and instilling confidence in Sunshine Coast residents. As an esteemed member of the Australian Dental Association and esteemed dental societies, he remains steadfast in delivering exceptional care to his patients.

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Dr. Adarsh Pisharodi

Dr. Adarsh Pisharodi, serving as the principal dentist at Oris Dental, brings a wealth of expertise spanning over 26 years to his esteemed practice. Specializing in cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, and orthodontics, he takes immense pride in rejuvenating countless smiles and instilling confidence in Sunshine Coast residents. As an esteemed member of the Australian Dental Association and esteemed dental societies, he remains steadfast in delivering exceptional care to his patients.

Adarsh (Principal Dentist)

Adarsh

Adarsh (A-Dash) is the principal dentist at Oris Dental. Adarsh graduated as a dentist in 1996 from the University of Mumbai (Bombay, India). He entered private practice as an assistant dentist in one of the leading practices in Mumbai from 1996-2002. The practice offered all aspects of dentistry with the exception of Orthodontics. This prompted Adarsh to pursue a post graduate degree in Orthodontics and successfully completed the 3 year Full time the master’s program from University of Mumbai (Bombay, India) in 2005. Since then, Adarsh has been in private practice both as a general dentist and an orthodontist. He also served as teaching faculty at University in Mumbai for 3 yrs and when in India, he has been ‘the dentist’ to many dentists!! In 2008, Adarsh took the Australian Dental Council exam for direct recognition of his skill in Australia. He successfully completed the exams in the first attempt and moved to Australia early 2009. He has been in private practice in Australia since Jan 2009. Oris Dental was set up in Minyama in 2011. Oris Dental is now over 8 years old and is growing to be a well-respected practice in the area. He is particularly interested in Cosmetic dentistry Dental implants and Orthodontics. Adarsh hopes to use all the experience he has gained in the past 22 years, to offer the best in dentistry to all his patients in this practice. Adarsh believes in spreading smiles and has successfully designed smiles and in doing so improved the lives and self-confidence of many Sunshine Coast locals (Take a look at our Smile gallery!). Adarsh is an active member of the Australian Dental Association since 2009 He held the post of Senior Lecturer in Orthodontics in Mumbai University before moving to Australia. He is a Life member of the Indian Dental Association, serving as the General Secretary of the Association (Mumbai City Chapter) 2007-2009 He is Life member of the Indian Orthodontic Society. He is Candidate for Membership Examination MRACDS (Ortho) and plans to complete his membership exams soon. Adarsh is also currently pursuing his Diploma in Implant dentistry at the Royal College of Surgeons(Edinburgh). Adarsh has recently complete intensive training in implant placement and restoration in Neoss and TRI (Swiss) Implant system. He is married to Prachi for 15yrs and they have a 11 yr old son – Aarjav, a little daughter Aria who has just started prep and Daisy the mad Lab pup! He is currently learning to play Tennis and Badminton and loves watching the cricket!

Prachi (Owner/ Dentist)

Prachi

Prachi is the director, part time dentist at Oris Dental. Prachi graduated in 2002 from Nair hospital dental college, Mumbai (Bombay, India), one of the leading dental schools in Asia. She then worked in multiple private practices across Mumbai (Bombay, India). While working as a dentist in various practices she picked up the positives from them and implemented them into this practice at Oris Dental. She is very friendly by nature and is particularly good at handling children, preventive dentistry and hygiene. Prachi moved to Australia in 2009. Prachi has there on completed her Australian Dental council exams successfully in early 2011 and is now ready to bring in her 12 years of experience to Oris Dental. Prachi also serves as a part time dentist at the Oral Health Services Sunshine Coast in Caloundra Kawana and Nambour as needed.

Davina (Dentist)

Davina

Davina has been a part of our family since 2014. After completing her bachelor’s degree from the University of Queensland, Davina has been in private practice in an around the Sunshine coast for a year before joining us full time. Davina shows exemplary skills in building a great relationship and rapport with her patients and is well regarded by her peers. Davina is very highly regarded by her current patients. Davina currently works 3 days a week.

Lise Slack (Dental Hygienist)

Lise Stack

Our dental hygienist Lise Slack is a trained member of the dental team who works together with your dentist in preventing gum diseases and dental decay.

Lise joined OrisDental in 2015 and has worked extensively in private specialist practices. She graduated from the University of Stellenbosch in South Africa in 1982 and has had specific training and exposure to an extensive range of periodontal conditions and treatment modalities.

Lise’s dad was a professor in dentistry and this is where her love of teeth comes from. She has invented two specialist oral care products which are available in Australia and several international countries. Lise has also lectured at international dental conferences on the maintenance of dental implants and how to help patients care for their teeth once they have contracted periodontitis.

Both adults and children can benefit from having an appointment with a dental hygienist as they are taught how dental diseases occur and how it can be prevented or managed.

Lise is married to Sam and they have two daughters. They value their family time and love adventurous outdoor sports.

Jesse (Dental Assistant)

Jesse (Dental Assistant)

Jess has been a part of Oris Dental from the outset in 2011. Always cheerful and welcoming Jess is the star amongst our patients at our practice. If you cannot find Jess in the practice she will be at the beach!

 

Kaela (Receptionist)

Debra (Receptionist)

Kaela arrived at our practice in early 2021. Coming from eight years of retail experience in Northern NSW, she loves working with people and assisting in any way she can. Kaela has also just finished her training as a dental assistant. You will immediately fall in love with her happy, bubbly personality.

Abby (Sr. Dental Assistant)

Abby (Dental Assistant)

Abby is originally from Hervey Bay, but she has been calling the Sunshine Coast home with her husband and two kids for the past four and a half years. Abby completed her cert III in dental assisting in 2015 and is looking to further her studies In the near future. Abby enjoys camping, playing guitar, and travelling
the world with her family.

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    Dr. Param Dass

    Dr. Param Dass

    Param Dass graduated with a Bachelor in Dentistry from the University of Otago, NZ in 2005. He went on to complete his Bachelor in Medicine from the University of Auckland NZ in 2010.

    Param started working part time in our practice since 2015 with special interest in surgical procedures including Dental implants and bone grafting procedures, Surgical extractions including Wisdom teeth and other minor surgical procedures.

    Param is well known for being gentle and caring in treating patients with dental anxiety and maintains a calm demeanour.

    He is also well trained in working with patients with various levels of anxiety, offering dental treatment under Happy Gas, Twilight sedation or under Full general anaesthetic.

    Dr. Brayden Fracchia

    Dr. Brayden Fracchia

    Brayden hails from North Queensland, having completed his Bachelor of Dental Surgery at JCU Cairns, practicing in Hobart and outreach dentistry from Mount Isa over the course of his studies. He has worked with us since 2020. Brayden enjoys becoming a part of a community and enjoys the outdoors and sport in his spare
    time. Having only recently moved to the beautiful Sunshine Coast, Brayden is enthusiastic and well versed in all aspects of basic general dentistry and looks forward to bringing North Queensland hospitality to the South East.

    Briar

    Briar

    Briar stated off as a trainee dental assistant in our practice mid-2020. She is the youngest member of our practice and is rapidly becoming an integral part of team Oris. Briar completed her Certificate 3 in our practice in 2021 and works full time Dental assistant at Oris Dental.

    Drew

    Drew

    Drew is Oris Dental’ newest member, who has only recently moved from his hometown of Rockhampton. He is our Oral Health Therapist, who specializes in oral health education, general check-ups, fillings and more!
    He loves a good chat and a laugh at work. He prioritizes patient’s comfort and likes to encourage an environment where everyone feels a sense of security and safety in the dental setting. When Drew isn’t at work you’ll find him having a refreshing swim at the beach or having his usual dirty chai at his local cafe.

    Jasmine

    Jasmine

    Jasmine joined our practice in November 2021 and works with our Oral Health Therapist Drew. Jasmine is new to dental assistance, however is quickly taking on any and all challenges that come her way! She loves animals, and spending quality time with her husband and two kids. Welcome to the team!

    Brooke

    Brooke

    Brooke is originally from Brisbane but has been living on the coast since 2017. She brings over 15 years of experience in the dental industry and has had the opportunity to work in London and Melbourne for the Royal Flying Doctors. Brooke enjoys surfing, scuba diving and exploring the many things that the Sunny Coast has to offer.

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