Editorial update:
Gummy Smile: Gum Display and Treatment Options
Different causes of visible gums when smiling, assessment, the option of no treatment and limits of interventions.
In this article 06
Visible gums when smiling are not a disease in themselves. Tooth eruption, lip movement and jaw relationships can influence appearance. If treatment is being considered, its cause, risks and the persistence of any effect should be discussed first.
How is gum display assessed?
The amount of gum visible when smiling varies between people. One millimetre threshold is not a standard of beauty or health. Lip movement at rest and during smiling, tooth proportions, gums and jaw relationships are assessed together.
Possible contributing factors
How gum covers the tooth surface, eruption position, lip movement and vertical jaw relationships may affect appearance. Gum enlargement also calls for assessment of inflammation and medicines. Do not stop prescribed medication yourself.
Which options can be discussed?
No cosmetic intervention is a valid choice. Active gum disease is addressed first. Selected cases may be assessed for periodontal reshaping, orthodontic movement or treatment of jaw relationships. Each approach has different tissue and follow-up requirements.
Are injections and surgery interchangeable?
Injections affecting lip muscle movement and procedures changing gum or bone serve different purposes. If an injection is proposed, discuss product indications, the possibility of a temporary effect and risks such as asymmetry. Suitability and repetition need individual assessment.
Risks and expectations
Depending on the procedure, risks may include bleeding, sensitivity, recession, wound-healing problems or later changes in appearance. Removing gum or bone is irreversible. Discuss goals, alternatives and maintenance before treatment; photographs and simulations cannot promise results.
Related treatment and assessment
This information does not replace an individual assessment. At your appointment, explain when symptoms began and share details of medicines and previous treatment.