Gummy Smile, the Disruptor of Smiles

Article | 2023-12-02 11:28:13

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Gummy Smile, the 'Disruptor' of Smiles

A captivating smile not only enhances confidence but also plays a pivotal role in one's social life. A pleasing smile not only makes you more attractive but also conveys a friendly impression. Besides clean and healthy teeth, a beautiful smile is characterized by well-defined lip lines, gum color, and a harmonious display of teeth and gums when smiling. One of the common obstacles to a beautiful smile experienced by many is the gummy smile. What exactly is a gummy smile? This article will delve deeper into gummy smiles, their causes, and ways to address them.

A gummy smile is a condition where the gums appear wide when someone smiles, essentially revealing an excessive amount of gum tissue. According to a study on gummy smiles, an aesthetically pleasing smile is one that shows gums less than 2mm wide. If a smile reveals gums 3mm or more, it is classified as a gummy smile. Interestingly, gummy smiles are more prevalent in women, with some data suggesting a 14% occurrence in women compared to 7% in men. While a gummy smile may be perceived as trivial, for those who have it, it can be a slightly bothersome aesthetic issue, especially in social interactions.

Several factors can contribute to a gummy smile, including:

Abnormal Tooth Eruption: Gummy smiles can result from suboptimal tooth eruption, where a portion of the clinical crown surface is covered by gum tissue, creating a wider gum appearance. This condition is also known as passive eruption.

Hypermobile Lips: Excessive activity of the lip muscles during smiling can cause the gums to appear wider.

Excessive Upper Jaw Bone Growth: A gummy smile can occur due to vertical maxillary excess, where the upper jaw bone grows longer than usual, exposing more gums when smiling.

Genetic Factors: A small 2014 study published in the International Journal of Dentistry suggests that a gummy smile might be an inherited trait.

Addressing a gummy smile can involve various medical treatments, but it's crucial to consult with a dentist first. A dentist will conduct an examination to determine the specific cause of your gummy smile. Additional diagnostic tests, such as X-rays, may be performed to gain a clearer understanding of the condition of tooth roots and jawbone. A dentist may refer you to specialized dental professionals, including periodontists, orthodontists, oral surgeons, and plastic surgeons, depending on the clinical conditions. Medical treatments for a gummy smile can include laser treatment, lip repositioning surgery, orthodontic treatment, surgery on gum and gingival tissue to create a healthier and more attractive gum contour, maxillofacial surgery to reposition the upper jawbone, and Botox treatment to reduce hyperactive lip muscle activity, preventing excessive gum exposure when smiling.

To achieve your dream of a beautiful smile without excessive gum exposure, seek appropriate treatment tailored to your needs to avoid unwanted risks. BIA (Bali Implant Aesthetic) Dental Center is ready to serve you with comprehensive facilities, including X-rays, and, of course, the best professional dentists in their field. BIA (Bali Implant Aesthetic) Dental Center is a trusted dental clinic near Kuta and not far from the airport. Don't let dental issues spoil your vacation in Bali. If you're enjoying the scenic beauty of Ubud and unexpectedly need a dentist, the distance from Ubud to BIA (Bali Implant Aesthetic) Dental Center is approximately 35 km. Entrust your dental care to the best dental clinic in Bali of your choice.

Dental Health Education:

Maintaining proper oral health contributes significantly to a beautiful smile. Regular dental check-ups, proper brushing and flossing techniques, and a balanced diet play crucial roles in preventing various dental issues, including gummy smiles.

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