Gummy Smile Treatment in Gardena, CA
A gummy smile is a condition where an excessive amount of gum tissue shows when smiling, which can affect your confidence and overall smile aesthetics. Studies estimate that approximately 10% of adults aged 20–30 have a gummy smile. At Brite Dental Gardena, Dr. Dang provides expert lip lowering surgery and cosmetic oral treatments to correct gummy smiles, giving you a balanced, natural, and confident smile.
What Causes a Gummy Smile?
- Excess gum tissue: Teeth may have normal length but appear shorter due to excessive gums, often caused by genetics, medications, or oral hygiene issues.
- Hyperactive upper lip muscles: Some people’s upper lips rise higher than normal when smiling, exposing more gums than usual.
- Abnormal maxilla development: In certain cases, the upper jaw may develop in a way that pushes gums downward, creating excessive exposure.
Who is a Candidate for Gummy Smile Correction?
You may be a candidate if you:
- Have excessive gum exposure when smiling
- Are unhappy with the appearance of your smile
- Have normal tooth length but uneven gum line
- Desire minimally invasive cosmetic oral surgery
A thorough consultation with Dr. Dang will help determine the best treatment approach for your unique smile.
Lip Lowering Surgery: How It Works
Lip lowering surgery reduces excessive gum exposure and improves smile aesthetics. The procedure typically involves:
- Consultation and Evaluation: Dr. Dang examines your gums, teeth, and lip movement to plan the treatment.
- Local Anesthesia: The procedure is performed comfortably under local anesthesia.
- Tissue Adjustment: Precise incisions are made to lower the upper lip and, in some cases, remove excess gum tissue or lengthen teeth crowns.
- Recovery and Follow-Up: Short recovery period with post-operative instructions for optimal healing.
Benefits of Gummy Smile Treatment
- Reduced gum visibility when smiling
- More proportionate and aesthetically pleasing smile
- Improved self-confidence and oral function
- Long-lasting, natural-looking results
Recovery & Aftercare
- Mild swelling or soreness may occur for a few days
- Follow dietary and activity instructions as advised
- Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent infection
- Attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing
Most patients return to normal activities quickly and notice immediate improvement in their smile.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is gummy smile surgery painful?
A: The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, minimizing discomfort. Mild soreness may occur during recovery.
Q: How long is the recovery period?
A: Most patients experience a short recovery period of a few days to a week.
Q: Will my smile look natural after surgery?
A: Yes. The procedure is carefully designed to create a balanced and natural-looking smile.
Q: Are there non-surgical alternatives?
A: Some mild cases may be treated with Botox or orthodontic adjustments, but surgical correction is most effective for long-term results.
Schedule Your Gummy Smile Consultation in Gardena, CA
If you are conscious of excess gum exposure and want to enhance your smile, Dr. Dang in Gardena can evaluate your case and recommend the most effective treatment. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a confident, beautiful smile.
Learn more about all our surgical procedures by visiting our main Oral Surgery in Gardena, CA page.