You might have heard the term “gummy smile” used with reference to someone whose gum tissue is prominently visible when they smile. This issue is commonly talked about for its rather undesirable aesthetics, but did you know that it can also lead to an increased risk of some serious problems? Let’s talk about the negative consequences of a gummy smile and what you can do to protect your oral health.
Redness, Swelling, and Bleeding
It is easy for overgrown gums to become red and inflamed, particularly if gum disease is the reason for the extra tissue. (Many people believe that only gum recession, not gum overgrowth, results from gum disease. However, both issues can occur.) The redness and swelling in the gums cause discomfort, and you may be more likely to experience bleeding when you brush and floss.
Trapped Bacteria and Tooth Decay
Excess gum tissue may trap bacteria and food particles beneath it. As more and more bacteria accumulate, they can lead to persistent bad breath, swelling, inflammation, and bleeding. Overgrown gums can also accelerate tooth decay because they make it more difficult to thoroughly clean your teeth. Even individuals who have excellent oral hygiene habits can suffer from these issues.
Total Tooth Coverage
In rare cases, an individual suffers from a severe type of gum overgrowth known as gingival fibromatosis. This is usually a hereditary condition, and it can occur by itself or as part of a genetic syndrome. People with gingival fibromatosis may find that their gums grow so much that they completely cover the crowns of their teeth.
As you can imagine, this problem can have a large, negative affect on facial aesthetics. Even more concerning, however, is that it can compromise the proper function of the teeth, as well as contribute to bone loss in the jaw, bleeding, and other problems.
What You Can Do
Not all cases of overgrown gums spell trouble for your oral health. If your genetics have endowed you with a small amount of extra gum tissue, the only bad thing about it may be the way it looks when you smile. Your cosmetic dentist can enhance your smile’s proportions via a procedure called gum recontouring. It involves the use of a soft tissue laser to trim away the extra tissue and reveal more of the underlying dental structure.
If your overgrown gums are a threat to your oral health, your dentist will strive to determine the cause of the problem and then recommend a solution. You may need gum recontouring along with some restorative treatments to get your oral health back on track.
A gummy smile may just be a cosmetic concern, but in some cases, it can lead to serious consequences. Consulting with your dentist can help you decide what to do about this issue.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Erin Page is the leader of the team at Capital Smiles. She are proud to offer numerous advanced services, including gum recontouring with a soft tissue laser, gum disease treatment, and more. If you are concerned about how a gummy smile may be affecting your oral health, she would be pleased to consult with you. Contact our office at 518-374-0317.