Gummy Smile Treatment in Panorama City, CA

Gummy Smile Treatment With Laser Gingivectomy

Our gummy smile treatment with laser Gingivectomy is designed to remove excess gum tissue and refine the gum line to reveal more of the dental crown. Using advanced laser technology, our procedure offers precise removal of surplus gums while simultaneously cauterizing the treated area. This promotes faster healing and better outcomes compared to traditional methods.

Choose our laser-assisted Gingivectomy because lasers provide the precision of conventional scalpel techniques with the added benefits of reduced blood loss, less discomfort, and shorter recovery times. By adjusting the wavelength of the diode laser, we can effectively vaporize excess gingival tissue while preserving the tooth enamel. This results in a healthier and more aesthetically pleasing smile.

Our gummy smile treatment with laser Gingivectomy enhances the appearance of your smile and ensures a comfortable and efficient healing process.

Call (818) 510-3440 for gummy treatment with laser gingivectomy in Panorama City, CA.

Our Non-Surgical Gummy Smile Treatment Procedure in Panorama City

At Textbook Orthodontics, we focus on non-surgical treatment for gummy smiles, providing a less invasive and highly effective solution.

Step 1: Initial Consultation

We begin with a free consultation to assess your needs and determine the best action for your gummy smile treatment. Our orthodontist will discuss your options and explain the benefits of our non-surgical approach.

Step 2: Placement of TADs

Our treatment utilizes TADs (temporary anchorage devices), which are small screws implanted into the jawbone. These TADs act as anchors to guide your teeth into optimal alignment, reducing excessive gum display. This step is minimally invasive and performed with precision to ensure comfort.

Step 3: Orthodontic Adjustment

Alongside the TADs, we employ orthodontic procedures to gradually adjust the position of your teeth and jaw. This helps minimize the appearance of a gummy smile over time.

Step 4: Monitoring and Adjustments

We regularly monitor your progress throughout the treatment and make necessary adjustments to ensure the best possible outcome. Our innovative approach allows for continuous optimization of your smile.

Step 5: Laser Contouring

Upon completing the orthodontic treatment, we perform a laser treatment to contour the hard and soft tissues around your smile. This step ensures a beautifully balanced appearance and enhances the aesthetic results of the treatment.

Step 6: Final Evaluation and Smile Reveal

Finally, we conduct a thorough evaluation to ensure all treatment goals are met. You will leave with a confident, radiant smile that reflects the success of our non-surgical gummy smile treatment.

Call (818) 510-3440 to schedule a free consultation in Panorama City, CA.

Causes of a Gummy Smile in Panorama City, CA

A gummy smile, characterized by excessive gingival display when smiling, can result from various underlying factors. Here are some common causes:

• Short Upper Lip: A naturally short upper lip can expose more gum tissue when smiling.

• Hypermobile Upper Lip: Excessive movement of the upper lip when smiling can lead to more gum visibility.

• Altered Passive Eruption occurs when the gums do not recede properly after the teeth have erupted, leaving excess gum covering the teeth.

• Gingival Hyperplasia: Overgrowth of gum tissue, often due to certain medications or health conditions, can contribute to a gummy smile.

• Vertical Maxillary Excess (VME): Overgrowth of the upper jawbone can create an elongated lower face and expose more gum tissue.

• Anterior Dentoalveolar Extrusion: Overeruption of the upper front teeth can push the gums downward, resulting in excessive gingival display.

Identifying the specific cause of a gummy smile is essential for effective treatment. Understanding these causes helps our Panorama City Orthodontists develop personalized treatment plans to improve smiles and boost confidence. Our approach ensures each patient receives the most appropriate and effective solution for their gummy smile.

Call (818) 510-3440 for orthodontist Panorama City gummy smile treatment in Panorama City, CA.

Other Treatment Options for Gummy Smile Correction

Lip Repositioning Surgery

Lip repositioning is a minimally invasive procedure that restricts the movement of the upper lip. By removing a section of connective tissue from the underside of the upper lip, this surgery lowers the lip's position, thereby reducing the gingival display. The procedure typically lasts about 45 minutes to an hour and requires a recovery period of approximately one week. Patients usually see permanent results, although some relapse can occur.

Orthognathic Surgery

For those with excessive gingival display due to jaw alignment issues, orthognathic surgery is a comprehensive solution. This involves realigning the upper and lower jaws to balance their lengths, usually performed under general anesthesia. The procedure may require a hospital stay of 2 to 4 days and a 6 to 12 weeks recovery period. While more invasive and expensive, orthognathic surgery provides a long-term correction for gummy smiles caused by jaw discrepancies.

Botox Injections

Botox injections offer a less invasive approach to correct a gummy smile caused by hyperactive lip muscles. Botox reduces gingival exposure when smiling by paralyzing the upper lip's elevator muscles. Each injection typically costs around $397 and needs to be repeated every 3 to 4 months. The primary advantage of Botox is its non-invasive nature, although it requires ongoing maintenance.

Hyaluronic Acid Fillers

Injecting hyaluronic acid fillers into the upper lip area is another temporary solution for gummy smiles. These fillers limit muscle fibers' movement, reducing the upper lip's elevation. The effects can last up to 8 months and provide a non-surgical option. However, potential risks include tissue damage, immune reactions, and complications like nodules or granulomas. Each vial costs around $682, making it an affordable and effective temporary fix.

Call (818) 510-3440 to schedule a free consultation in Panorama City, CA.

What Causes Gingival Hypertrophy?

Gingival hypertrophy, or gingival overgrowth or enlargement, is when the gum tissue becomes excessively large. This overgrowth can impede proper dental hygiene and cause discomfort during activities like chewing and eating.

Causes of Gingival Hypertrophy:

The primary cause of gingival hypertrophy is the side effects of certain medications, specifically anticonvulsants, immunosuppressants, and calcium channel blockers. These medications lead to gingival tissue growth even though the gums are not the target organ.

• Anticonvulsants: Drugs such as phenytoin, sodium valproate, and phenobarbitone can cause gingival overgrowth, with phenytoin being the most commonly associated.

• Immunosuppressants: These are used to prevent organ transplant rejection and treat autoimmune diseases. Cyclosporin is the most frequently associated with gingival overgrowth, occurring in up to 53% of patients, particularly after renal transplants. Tacrolimus and sirolimus can also cause this condition, although to a lesser extent.

• Calcium Channel Blockers: Used to treat hypertension and angina, drugs like nifedipine, amlodipine, and diltiazem can also lead to gingival enlargement. Nifedipine, in combination with immunosuppressants like cyclosporin, can exacerbate the condition.

Genetic predisposition and dental plaque or gingival inflammation influence the development and severity of gingival hypertrophy. The response to these drugs varies among individuals, suggesting a genetic component to the condition.

Proper dental hygiene and plaque control are essential in managing and preventing gingival hypertrophy. In some cases, changing the medication can alleviate the overgrowth, but if this is not possible, medical treatments such as plaque control and possibly surgical options may be necessary.

Call (818) 510-3440 for gummy smile treatment in Panorama City, CA.