What is a Gummy Smile?
A gummy smile is a common cosmetic issue where an excessive amount of gum tissue shows when a person smiles, revealing a significant portion of the gums above the upper teeth. Individuals with a gummy smile have a high smile line that exposes more gum tissue than usual.
Causes of a Gummy Smile
There are several main reasons for a gummy smile, including:
- Low Position of Upper Teeth:
- The teeth are positioned lower than the average level.
- Excessive Gum Growth:
- Some individuals have larger-than-normal gum tissues, which makes the gums more noticeable.
- Orthodontic Treatments:
- In some cases, orthodontic treatments can cause a gummy smile, especially if the teeth are moved excessively.
- Short Upper Lip:
- A short upper lip can make the gums more prominent when smiling.
- Protruding Upper Jawbone:
- A protruding upper jaw increases the visibility of the gums.
- Hyperactive Upper Lip Muscles:
- Overactive muscles that lift the upper lip can cause the gums to be overly exposed.