Does Invisalign Help Gummy Smiles?

We advise that you book an orthodontic consultation with our orthodontics team so that they can assess your gum tissue, teeth and bite positioning. From here, they can determine the best course of action to improve your smile. 

 

Medically referred to as “excessive gingival display,” a gummy smile happens when a significant height of your upper gum tissue is exposed between your teeth and your lip when you smile. While we believe that all smiles are beautiful, we understand that a gummy smile can be a source of insecurity for some of our clients. 

 

There are many reasons why you might have a gummy smile, from genetics to a short upper lip, short teeth, a hyperactive upper lip, and structural or growth issues. The success of orthodontic treatment in addressing a gummy smile is contingent upon the specific underlying cause and the severity of your condition. 

 

Invisalign, the world's leading transparent aligner system, is renowned for its versatility and reliability in addressing an extensive range of dental concerns. This innovative treatment involves wearing a series of clear, removable aligners that gradually and precisely move your teeth over time. By strategically adjusting the position of your teeth and aligning your jaw, Invisalign can help you achieve a more balanced and harmonious smile, resulting in improved overall dental aesthetics and improved confidence. 

 

In cases where a gummy smile is attributed to jawbone structure or bite positioning, such as an overbite, Invisalign can be an effective solution. It can help reposition your teeth and guide the jaw into a more balanced alignment, resulting in less visible gum tissue. However, if you have moderate to severe bite issues or significant jawbone problems, traditional braces may be a more suitable option. Traditional braces can offer greater strength in straightening your smile and give orthodontists more control and precision over tooth movement. 

 

If your gummy smile is primarily due to an excess of gum tissue (gingival hypertrophy) and there are no underlying structural or bite issues, gum recontouring may be the more suitable choice. Gum recontouring, or a “gum lift,” is a cosmetic dental procedure designed to enhance the visual appeal of your smile. It involves delicately reshaping and sculpting the gum line to expose more of the tooth, resulting in a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing smile proportionate to your facial features. 

 

Throughout the gum recontouring procedure, the area is typically numbed using a local anaesthetic to provide comfort. Our experienced dental team will then use a laser or electrosurgical technique to precisely remove or reshape the excess gum tissue. This minimally invasive procedure allows for a straightforward and speedy healing process. However, it's crucial to maintain a diligent oral hygiene routine after treatment to preserve the outcome and promote a healthy, radiant smile. 

 

Are you in search of a reliable orthodontist in the Nottingham area? Don't hesitate to reach out to us today at 0115 910 1447 or conveniently book your appointment online for an orthodontic consultation with our dedicated team. We will thoroughly assess your smile and develop a personalised treatment plan to create your best smile.