Braces for a Gummy Smile
We all desire an attractive smile. For crooked teeth, traditional braces can help align the teeth themselves, but teeth are not the only aspects of a smile. Our gum line plays a large part in how our smile looks. If you have too low or too high of a gum line, or what is known as a gummy smile, it can impact your smile.
Thankfully, there are options available. At Kellyn Hodges Orthodontics in Philadelphia, Bala Cynwyd, and Bensalem, PA, we want you to look and feel your best, with a smile to be proud of. Braces for a gummy smile may help reshape your gum line to an aesthetically pleasing height and shape.
What Causes a Gummy Smile?
Why do some individuals have a gummy smile? There are a few different reasons, including bad bite, hyperactive upper lip, and swollen gums.
Bad Bite
For many, the problem is related to a bad bite, when your top and bottom arches of teeth do not align. This causes a range of problems, including jaw problems and a gummy smile. Misaligned teeth allow more gum tissue to show, giving your smile a gummy appearance.
Hyperactive Upper Lip
A genetic condition known as a hyperactive upper lip can cause upper gum tissue to protrude. The muscles in the lip and nose are used more regularly and this leads to more pronounced gums.
Swollen Gums
If your gums are swollen, they can appear larger and take up more of your smile. Unhealthy gums can lead to a variety of issues. If you are noticing pain, discomfort, redness, or swelling, you may have gingivitis or periodontitis.
How Can Braces Help?
Braces are an effective method for treating gummy smiles due to a bad bite. Over time, your teeth are slowly repositioned to an ideal, symmetrical bite with braces. When your teeth and bone structures align properly, your gums appear flatter, more even, and less pronounced.
By aligning your bite as close to ideal as possible, your oral functions will improve as well. Those with speech problems due to orthodontic issues will find they may have less trouble speaking. Biting and chewing becomes more effective, affecting your gut and oral health. Well-chewed food is easier on digestion, and is more easily removed from teeth when brushing and flossing, both of which are also improved by orthodontic treatment.
Maintain Proper Gum Health
Orthodontics can help align your teeth and remedy gum tissue issues, but it is up to you to keep them healthy. We recommend following these guidelines to help keep your gums healthy:
- Brush with a soft brush: Using a soft-bristled brush is easier on your gums. Less irritation means less redness and swelling.
- Floss daily: The importance of flossing for gum health cannot be overstated. Use a water flosser for those hard to reach places.
- Attend routine dental cleanings: Flossing is essential, but unfortunately it cannot fully remove hardened plaque, also known as tartar. For that, professional dental cleanings are recommended to keep your teeth and gums clean.
Join Us for a Consultation
If you are interested in treating over-pronounced gums with braces, reach out to our team today. Call our office at (610) 617-0700 or send us a message to schedule an appointment.