WHAT IS A GUMMY SMILE?

A gummy smile is a term used to describe a smile in which there is an excessive amount of gum showing between the upper lip and the upper row of teeth. A smile looks perfect when the upper lip sits just above the top row of teeth, revealing barely any gum tissue. A gummy smile, however, reveals an excessive amount of gum tissue and creates a noticeably disproportionate gum-to-tooth ratio. About 15 percent of all Americans are affected by gummy smiles. The condition is especially common among women and younger people. During gummy smile surgery, a small implant is used to reposition the upper lip, resulting in a more balanced gum-to-tooth ratio when you smile.

BENEFITS OF COSMETIC GUM SURGERY TO TREAT A GUMMY SMILE

A gummy smile can be a source of social embarrassment that can actually prevent some people from smiling and laughing regularly. Surgical correction of a gummy smile is a simple procedure or set of procedures that make people feel more relaxed about smiling and laughing in public and makes them feel generally less self-conscious and more willing to enjoy themselves socially. After getting gummy smile surgery, you won’t be able to resist the urge to smile.

IS GUMMY SMILE SURGERY RIGHT FOR ME?

If you are concerned about how much gum shows when you smile, gummy smile surgery may be right for you. Even the most profound gummy smiles can be corrected through surgery, transforming your smile into one you can feel confident showing off. This technique can be performed on most adults who are in good overall health and who do not have any severe dental health issues.

HOW INVOLVED IS THE GUMMY SMILE PROCEDURE?

The upper lip implant procedure requires local anesthesia, with sedation, and can usually be completed in under an hour, making this a fairly brief surgical procedure. During the surgery, a small incision inside the nose enables the insertion of the implant. Made of silicone, its purpose is to decrease the retractions of the upper lip and thereby show less gum tissue.

HOW LONG IS THE RECOVERY AFTER GUMMY SMILE SURGERY?

This is considered to be a minimally invasive surgical procedure. Afterward, you may experience minor soreness or swelling. You may find it uncomfortable to eat or talk for a few days and may find it more comfortable to avoid moving your mouth. Patients are generally back to work the next day, although some take a couple of days off work to recover, particularly if their job involves extensive talking. It takes several weeks for full re-animation of the upper lip with smiling.

HOW MUCH DOES THE GUMMY SMILE PROCEDURE COST?

The cost of gummy smile surgery depends on the extent of surgical work being done. During your consultation, The doctor will discuss specifics with you giving you a better idea of how much the procedure may cost. Financing is available.

WHAT SHOULD I DO NEXT?

Are you looking for a surgical fix for your gummy smile in the Fort Lauderdale and Broward County areas? Contact double board-certified plastic surgeon Nathan Eberle, M.D., D.D.S., F.A.C.S at the Weston Center for Plastic Surgery today for your consultation.