A "gummy smile" is a term dentists use when a person has gums that extend down too far. This can either be a result of several different things, but there are ways to fix this problem. If you have this type of smile and are embarrassed by it, you may want to talk to your dentist about using dental veneers to fix the problem.
What are dental veneers?
Dental veneers are commonly used in cosmetic dentistry to fix teeth that are misshaped or discolored. They are also used to close gaps and to fix a variety of other problems. Veneers are typically made of porcelain and are designed to slip over existing teeth. They are custom-made to correct specific problems of teeth, and they may be able to help you fix your gummy smile.
What causes gummy smiles?
A gummy smile can be the result of numerous issues. In some cases, a person's gummy smile is the result of small teeth, while other times it can be the result of gums growing too far. Gummy smiles can also occur when a person's upper lip is too high. Your dentist will need to examine your teeth to see if veneers could be used to solve the problem.
Are dental veneers enough to fix the problem?
Dental veneers can often fix a gummy smile; however, there are times when they are not enough. In many cases, a dentist will need to perform a procedure that removes part of the gums. This is called crown lengthening, and it is often completed with a laser. When this is done, it will often reveal more of your teeth, which may help fix the problem you are experiencing.
After your dentist completes this procedure, you may still need to get veneers to achieve your goal. This will depend on the color of your teeth, their shape, and the way they look.
If you have a gummy smile simply from having short teeth, using veneers may be a good solution for the problem. In this situation, you may not need to go through any other procedures.
There are also times when fixing a gummy smile will require other steps too, such as getting braces. Every situation is different, and you will need to visit a dentist to find out what it will take to fix your gummy smile. To learn more about this, contact a dentist that specializes in cosmetic dentistry services.
Share30 March 2016
Halloween is a holiday that my children love, and telling them they can't go door-to-door collecting candy would break their hearts. This led me to allowing them to collect candy on the holiday, then rationing it out to them every day instead of letting them gobble it up in just a few days. I always thought this was better for them, but my dentist told me this could be the reason why their February dental check-ups were always their worst ones. Daily candy consumption was taking a toll on their teeth. I started a new tradition of letting them indulge for two days, then giving them the option to swap the rest with me in exchange for a new toy. They never pass on the opportunity for a new toy. I created this blog to encourage other parents find similar tactics to keep their children's teeth healthy after Halloween.