A gummy smile can reduce the attractiveness of your smile. If the amount of gum you show when you smile makes you self-conscious, you can talk to your cosmetic dentist about correcting it. Veneers can balance the ratio between teeth and gums, providing a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Treating a Gummy Smile
A “gummy” smile occurs when your smile exposes more of your gums than you find attractive. There are several ways to correct the look of a gummy smile. In some cases, a cosmetic dentist might recommend gum contouring, in which the gum is surgically reshaped to expose more of the tooth. Surgery can also change the way the upper lip falls over the gums, enabling it to cover more and provide a more natural look.
Veneers are another solution that is relatively non-invasive and simple to accomplish. Veneers are fingernail-thin and are affixed to the surfaces of the teeth. Your cosmetic dentist will have them custom made so that they provide exactly the right ratio between gum and tooth to make your smile more attractive.
How are Veneers Applied?
Veneers are usually applied in a two-step process. First, your dentist makes molds of your teeth. The veneers are custom-made from these molds so they’ll perfectly match the contours of your natural teeth. They are also color-matched. When your veneers are in place, your treated teeth will have the appearance of regular enamel.
After the molds are made, your teeth will be treated to make room for the veneers. In most cases, a thin layer of enamel is removed. Some veneers, though, are so thin that this is unnecessary, in which case they are affixed directly to the tooth surfaces. Veneers are manufactured in an off-site lab that specializes in this type of work, and usually take a few days to be completed. When they are done, your dentist will set them in place with a strong adhesive that bonds with your tooth. With proper care, your new veneers will last a decade or more.
Not satisfied with your smile? Our team is happy to help, so call our office today!
