Treatment Options for a Gummy Smile in Salt Lake City, UT

Everyone has a smile that is unique to them, but not everyone is happy with the smile that they have. If you feel like you show a great deal of gum when you grin, you could have what is commonly known as a ‘gummy smile’.

It often isn’t known what causes a gummy smile. Too much gum tissue covering the teeth is often genetic, and you may find others within your family with the same issue. However, gum disease, which involves inflammation of the gum tissue, can also cause teeth to appear unusually short when compared to the amount of gum on display.

Whatever is causing your excess gum tissue, you may feel that it has a negative effect on your smile. People who dislike an aspect of their appearance can suffer from low self-esteem, lack of confidence, social anxiety and even depression. This is particularly the case when the thing that you dislike about the way you look is difficult to hide.

Fortunately, you don’t have to live with the effects of a gummy smile. We are pleased to be able to offer crown lengthening – a cosmetic dentistry treatment that can reduce the amount of gum tissue on display when you smile.

What is Crown Lengthening

Crown lengthening is a very straightforward procedure that is primarily cosmetic in nature, although it can also improve the health of the gum tissue, particularly if you are suffering from gum disease. It may also be used if you require a restoration such as a crown as it will allow your dentist to ensure that the restoration fits correctly right down to the gum tissue and should create enough natural teeth so that the restoration doesn’t become loose in the future.

What Happens During Crown Lengthening For a Gummy Smile?

When it comes to treating a gummy smile, the purpose of crown lengthening is to expose more of the enamel of the teeth by cutting away some of the excess gum tissue that is causing teeth to look unusually short. The process itself can usually be performed in less than an hour under a local anesthetic, though you may be able to have sedation should you require it.
A series of small incisions are made around the gum tissue to separate it from the teeth. This is the case even if only one tooth needs crown lengthening as often it is necessary to adjust the soft tissue on neighboring teeth to create an even gum line. Any excess gum tissue is cut away and the area cleaned with sterile water. Sutures are used to secure the gum tissue in the new position, and you will be able to return home. The sutures will need to be removed in approximately 14 days.

Recovering From Crown Lengthening

Since it is a surgical procedure, you will need to give yourself time to heal and recover after a crown lengthening procedure. You will almost certainly be in some discomfort and require pain medications to manage this. You will also need to follow a diet of soft food and take extra care when brushing your teeth. Our surgical team will give you specific advice to follow regarding your diet and keeping your teeth and gums clean, as well as information regarding things that you should and shouldn’t do while you recover.
The initial result of your procedure will be visible immediately, but since your gums will be swollen for some time, the final, healed result could take up to eight weeks to be properly enjoyed.



If you have a gummy smile and would like more information about crown lengthening, please contact Eagle Gate Dental in Salt Lake City, UT today (801) 359-2655.