Gummy Smile

A gummy smile, also known as excessive gingival display, is both a dental condition and an aesthetic concern characterised by an excessive exposure of the gum tissue when a person smiles.

This occurs when a significant portion of the gum line is visible, often overshadowing the teeth, and creating an unbalanced aesthetic. Being affected by this concern is usually down to the individual’s personal perception. In most cases, a gummy smile is considered if more than 2 mm of gum tissue is on display. 

Several factors contribute to a gummy smile. One common cause is an overactive or hypermobile upper lip. This is where the lip rises too high when smiling, revealing an excessive amount of gum tissue. Another factor can be an abnormal eruption of teeth, causing them to appear shorter than usual. Additionally, an excessive growth of the gum tissue (known as gingival hypertrophy) can lead to a gummy smile.

The impact of a gummy smile on one’s appearance can be a source of self-consciousness and may affect a person’s confidence when smiling. Individuals with a gummy smile may feel hesitant to display their teeth, which can hinder their social interactions and overall well-being.

Fortunately, various treatment options are available to address a gummy smile. These may include: orthodontic treatments to reposition the teeth, gum contouring procedures to reshape the gum line, and in severe cases, surgical interventions to adjust the position of the upper jaw.

However, when a hypermobile lip is thought to be the cause, this can be addressed through a non-surgical / less invasive route. Bank Medispa provides an anti-wrinkle treatment which is also effective when used for other aesthetic / medical concerns. The product used in this treatment works to relax muscle movement. So when it’s injected at specific points near the nostrils and between the nose and mouth, it will help to inhibit the top lip from rising too high and less of the gumline is exposed.