If you are self-conscious from a gummy smile, there is a surgical procedure to help you improve your smile. A gummy smile means when you smile, there is more gums in your smile than your teeth. This can be corrected by reducing how much gum tissue is shown and elongating the appearance of your teeth.

CANDIDATES FOR GUMMY SMILE SURGERY

Before deciding to get this procedure, consider whether or not you are a good candidate for it. You must show mental competency and be positive, yet realistic about the results. If you smile and are not confident because of too much gum tissue showing, you are already well on your way to being a good candidate for the procedure. If you are not in good overall or dental health, however, you may need to address those problems first.

THE PROCEDURE

The gummy smile procedure utilized an upper lip implant and is done under anesthesia like Novocaine. If you have anxiety while in the dental chair, you can also request general anesthesia so you are not awake during the procedure. The surgery is quick, usually taking an hour or less. An incision is made in the nose, which is large enough to fit the implant. It is made of silicone, so it is soft and flexible, making it easy to fit in the

RECOVERY AND RESULTS

Since this is a minimally invasive procedure, there is a short recovery. For the first few days, expect some minor swelling and soreness in your upper lip and nose where the incision was. If it is uncomfortable to smile, talk or eat, take some time off from work and school. Avoid moving your mouth too much and stick to a liquid diet until it starts feeling better. Take any medications your doctor prescribed you, including pain relief medications and antibiotics if applicable.