When the gums are overexposed during a smile, you may know it as a ‘gummy smile,’ while medical experts call it an ‘excessive gingival display.’ Excessive gingival display is purely a cosmetic issue, though sometimes it can be a symptom indicative of a health concern requiring medical attention.
Regardless of the cause of a gummy smile, there are ways to address it. If you would like to limit the amount your gums are exposed, learn more about excessive gingival display and what can be done about it, from oral hygiene tips to gum recontouring.
What Causes the Gums To Be Exposed
The most common reason for overly exposed gums is genetics. Excessive gingival display can be due to genetic factors such as a thin upper lip, smaller teeth, or the appearance of the gumline.
There can also be growth of the gums caused by hormonal imbalances due to disease or even certain medications. Sometimes, the teeth may improperly erupt through the gum line and give the appearance of prominent and visible gums.
In some instances, a gummy smile can directly result from improper hygiene. Inflammation of the gums caused by infection can lead to pronounced gums, making them appear larger when you smile.
What To Do for a ‘Gummy Smile’
While the predominant reason for overexposed gums is genetic, there are still ways you can help address a gummy smile.
For one, if caused by inflammation of the gums, overexposed gums may be remedied by proper oral hygiene. While most know that brushing and flossing daily is necessary, many with improper oral hygiene brush and floss incorrectly.
When brushing, brush down to the gum line for an adequate amount of time. The American Dental Association recommends brushing for two minutes twice daily. While brushing is significant, flossing is the only way to remove damaging plaque between teeth. Be sure to floss down to the gum line for proper oral health.
When the cause and treatment of your overly exposed gums aren’t related to oral hygiene, you may need gum recontouring.
Find Gum Recontouring at Arcadia Dental Arts
Gum recontouring removes excess gum tissue to improve the appearance of a gummy smile.
At Arcadia Dental Arts, proudly serving the Phoenix, Arizona, community, and surrounding areas, we provide gum contouring with a diode laser to ensure an effective and easy procedure.
To learn more about how gum contouring at Arcadia Dental Arts can help overly exposed gums, please contact Arcadia Dental Arts at 602-957-9643.
