Gummy Smile Treatment
Seattle cosmetic dentist Lance Timmerman DMD in Tukwila is often asked to “Fix my gummy smile!” Some dentists simply “fix” the enamel part of their smile, but don’t notice (or aren’t capable of fixing) the lip size or movement. When a gummy smile is an issue, there are three choices:
Botox for the Gummy Smile
For a relatively low cost, Botox can be placed in such a way that the upper lip will move very little, or not at all. This will last for an average of 3 months, so if you don’t like it, you aren’t committed. If you DO like it, then you must be committed to repeat the procedure often.
Contour Gums (Gingivectomy) for a Gummy Smile
Sometimes the “issue of tissue” is simply a mm or two. A dental laser can fix this very easily and at such a low setting you may not even need to get numb! Buyer beware, though, as some dentists simply lengthen the arch of tissues, but are not aware or experienced to know where the zenith (highest part) of the tissue should be. The result is underwhelming.
Crown Lengthening for Gummy Smile
More dramatic changes, that are permanent, comes down to what is called “Crown Lengthening.” This is the removal of some bone all the way around the tooth to expose more of it. When doing so, the tooth will then need to be restored with a crown or a veneer since much more root is now exposed to the oral environment and will not only by prone to decay but will look “unpleasing.”
Experience Counts
It seems that every dentist claims to be a cosmetic dentist, and strictly speaking this is true. White fillings, that every dentist does, can be considered cosmetic, but that isn’t really what the public is asking for. Here, cosmetic dentist means a dentist that can create or enhance a beautiful smile. Be it from moving the teeth or placing porcelain or contouring the gums, Dr Timmerman has the experience necessary to give you the smile you deserve!
