More and more, we are seeing patients with the complaint or observation “I have a gummy smile,”  or “I show too much gum in my pictures”  (or on Zoom).  Though I have written about it before, it’s worth taking another look at.  It can be caused by a number of things.  Some people have a genetic predisposition to it, especially if one or both of their parents have that problem.  It is often related to tooth position and eruption, which also occurs following orthodontic treatment; when metal brackets and bands are used, there is often gingival overgrowth, which may resolve following the removal of the appliances.  If it doesn’t improve, the excess tissue can be removed fairly easily.  In most cases, the use of a diode laser will do the trick in a very gentle and predictable way, similar to drawing with a pencil on a sheet of paper.  Other more pronounced situations may require an actual cutting of the tissue, bone smoothing, and suture placement.  Fortunately, the vast majority of patients can be treated easily, quickly, and painlessly with a laser.

We invite our patients and prospective patients to meet with us to discuss their options and/or send us some photographs so that we can talk about it over the phone or in person.  Just call Alysia or Karin at 440-461-1003, and we’ll be glad to see what’s the best and simplest way to get rid of the “gummy smile” so that you can show your best self!