You can’t put a price on the benefits of a beautiful smile. A person with an attractive smile is viewed as young, confident, and successful; however, few people have flawless teeth naturally. Did you know the appearance of your teeth isn’t the only component of a stunning smile? Your gums are equally influential. If you have a gummy smile, you don’t have to be embarrassed by short or stubby teeth. Your cosmetic dentist has 3 solutions to reveal larger teeth.
1. BOTOX
BOTOX is a popular treatment used to turn back the clock by reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. It also offers therapeutic benefits, allowing it to treat migraines, excessive sweating, and many other issues. However, it is also a great option to correct a gummy smile.
BOTOX temporarily paralyzes specific muscles to stop them from contracting. When injected into the upper lip, it relaxes the muscles that cause it to rise too high. As a result, it will decrease the elevation of your top lip to cover more of your gums when smiling. Your results can last for several months.
2. Orthodontics
Believe it or not, the positions of your teeth can contribute to the amount of gum tissue shown when smiling. Correcting bite and alignment problems can significantly reduce gum tissue exposure while also improving your oral health and functions.
You don’t have to worry about the noticeability of brackets and wires. Invisalign uses clear aligners to fix bite and alignment issues for a discreet treatment that provides lasting results. You’ll wear the aligners over your teeth for 22 hours per day, with the average treatment lasting about 12 months.
3. Gum Recontouring
Gum recontouring is the most traditional treatment for gummy smiles. The procedure removes excess gum tissue to expose more of the teeth surfaces. It makes them appear larger and more proportionate. The versatile procedure can also treat an uneven gum line and periodontal disease.
You don’t have to stress about scalpels or sutures. Instead, your dentist will use a soft tissue laser to sculpt your gum line with pinpoint accuracy. The procedure is less invasive than the traditional method. Overall, there’s less risk of bleeding, infections, and inflammation for a quicker recovery.
If your gums have been damaged by periodontal disease, the laser will target the infection to kill bacteria, allowing the regeneration of healthy tissue.
Which is the Right Treatment for You?
Only your dentist can determine which option is right for you. After examining your mouth and learning more about your preferences, they’ll create a personalized treatment plan to turn the smile of your dreams into reality.
About Dr. Cindy Lau
Dr. Lau earned her dental degree from the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine and has completed advanced training in general dentistry from the University of Texas. She has pursued continuing education in periodontal therapy, sedation dentistry, and much more. If you’re ready to say goodbye to your gummy smile, request an appointment through our website or call (617) 860-3632.