Gingival Exposure in Upper Anterior Teeth: Causes and Management By Dr. Bharathi Dental Clinic and Implant Centre, West Mambalam A beautiful smile is often associated with symmetrical teeth and healthy gums. However, in some individuals, the upper front teeth are accompanied by excessive gingival (gum) display, commonly referred to as a "gummy smile." While this may not pose a direct health concern, it can significantly impact one’s self-confidence and smile aesthetics. What is Gingival Exposure? Gingival exposure refers to the visible display of gum tissue when smiling, especially in the region of the upper anterior teeth. Ideally, a smile should reveal 1–2 mm of gum above the teeth. When more than 3–4 mm of gum is visible, it is usually considered excessive and may be aesthetically undesirable to the patient. Causes of Excessive Gingival Display There are multiple reasons for gingival exposure in the upper front teeth: Altered Passive Eruption Sometimes the gums do not recede to their normal position after the teeth erupt, leaving more gum tissue than usual visible. Hyperactive Upper Lip In some individuals, the upper lip rises too much when smiling, exposing more gum tissue than normal. Vertical Maxillary Excess (VME) This is a skeletal condition where the upper jaw has grown more vertically than usual, leading to a longer face and more visible gums. Short Upper Lip A naturally short upper lip may not cover the gumline properly, even at rest or during smiling. Inflamed or Overgrown Gums (Gingival Hypertrophy) Poor oral hygiene or certain medications can lead to gingival overgrowth, increasing gum visibility. Worn Teeth Excessive tooth wear can cause the teeth to appear shorter, making the gum display more prominent by comparison. Diagnosis and Evaluation At Dr. Bharathi Dental Clinic, we conduct a thorough clinical and radiographic evaluation to identify the underlying cause of gingival exposure. Photographs, smile analysis, and sometimes cephalometric X-rays are used to plan treatment. Treatment Options Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the gingival exposure: Crown Lengthening Surgery Used in cases of altered passive eruption, where excess gum and bone are removed to reveal more tooth surface. Botox Injections For hyperactive upper lips, Botox can reduce the upward movement of the lip, minimizing gum show temporarily. Orthognathic Surgery In cases of vertical maxillary excess, jaw surgery may be needed to reposition the upper jaw. Lip Repositioning Surgery This procedure limits the elevation of the upper lip during smiling. Laser Gum Contouring Minimally invasive reshaping of gums using a dental laser for mild cases. Conclusion Gingival exposure in the upper anterior teeth is a treatable condition with both surgical and non-surgical options. At Dr. Bharathi Dental Clinic and Implant Centre, West Mambalam, we provide customized solutions based on individual needs, helping you achieve a balanced and confident smile. Dental Clinics in West Mambalam Dentists in West Mambalam Dentists in Ashok Nagar Best dentist near me Best Dental Clinics in West Mambalam Oral surgeon in West Mambalam Dental Implants in West Mambalam Oral surgeon in Ashok Nagar Painless tooth removal at West Mambalam Rootcanal treatment at West Mambalam Top rated dentist in West Mambalam