Gummy Smile

The causes of a Gummy Smile can be listed as follows. These factors can be seen individually or in combination:

• Abnormally delayed (passive) tooth eruption.

• Excessive eruption of maxillary anterior teeth (upper jaw front group teeth).

• Hyperfunction of lip elevator muscles, particularly the levator labii superioris (LLS), levator labii superioris alaeque nasi (LLSAN), and zygomaticus minor (ZMi), which join the side of the nasal wing.

• Excessive vertical growth of the upper jaw bone can lead to a Gummy Smile.

• Insufficient or short upper lip.

To achieve the desired outcome in Gummy Smile treatments, the treatment method chosen depends on whether the condition is symmetrical/asymmetrical and the volume of visible gum tissue. These treatment methods can also be used in combination. Treatment methods include:

• Orthodontics: In this method, teeth are intruded using orthodontic force. This can be achieved with a bracket/wire system or with clear aligners like Invisalign.

• Orthognathic Surgery: If the excessive vertical growth of the upper jaw is the cause, gum tissue intervention alone cannot correct the Gummy Smile. In such cases, orthognathic surgery is performed to reduce the height of the upper jaw and eliminate the Gummy Smile.

• Laser Application: In this method, the gum tissue is reshaped using a dental laser and volumetrically reduced. This reduces visibility during smiling. The laser procedure utilizes photonic energy, and through photoablation, gum tissue trimming/incision is performed. Laser application ensures a more comfortable process both during and after the procedure.

• Conventional Surgery (Gingivectomy): In this procedure, conventional surgical techniques are used. The planned amount of gum tissue is removed using an appropriate scalpel tip or electrocautery.

• Botox Application: In this method, Botox (botulinum toxin A) is injected into the hyperactive muscles of the upper lip. This limits the movement of the muscle group that lifts the upper lip during smiling, reducing the upward movement of the upper lip. It should be noted that Botox applications typically last around six months.

• Micro-Autologous Fat Transplantation (MAFT): In this technique, an autogenous fat graft obtained from the patient is injected into the adhesion site of the muscle bundle that moves the upper lip upwards, similar to the Botox application. Since the patient’s own fat tissue is used, there is no risk of allergic reaction, and the long-term effectiveness of MAFT makes it a popular application in maxillofacial treatments.

• Provides a confident, aesthetic smile for the patient.

• According to some studies, Gummy Smile treatment is important for gum health and can reduce the likelihood of potential gum diseases. The presence of a Gummy Smile, especially in individuals who breathe through their mouths during sleep, increases the likelihood of gum disease.

• Gummy Smile treatment enhances the success of prosthetic and cosmetic dentistry procedures.

• Compared to European and American countries, medical and treatment costs in Turkey are more affordable, making Turkey an advantageous destination for our valued patients seeking Gummy Smile treatments.

• Quick and effective solutions are easily accessible.

• The treatment is carried out with effective and state-of-the-art medical devices.

• Our expert and experienced physicians perform atraumatic interventions, ensuring short healing periods.