Exposed gums are a common source of distress, significantly impacting one's appearance and causing hesitation to smile even during joyful moments. In this era of advanced technology, solutions exist—gum contouring surgery stands as the most effective method to address this concern. Let's explore this cosmetic dental procedure further.
Typically, orthodontic treatment is used for correction, available at dental hospitals or clinics, though it requires 6 months to 1 year. Some opt for convenience by extracting or grinding down protruding teeth and installing porcelain crowns. This approach is inadvisable, as even the best artificial teeth cannot match natural ones.
For maxillary protrusion
Orthognathic surgery is typically employed to reposition the protruding maxilla to its normal position.This procedure requires precise measurements and specialized surgical instruments. It involves significant trauma, necessitates a longer recovery period, carries certain risks, and demands high standards from both the surgeon and the hospital. However, orthognathic surgery possesses the power to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary, significantly improving the patient's appearance.
For dental malocclusion
Experts advise that orthodontic treatment is the standard approach, available at dental hospitals or clinics, typically requiring 6 months to 1 year. Some may opt for convenience by extracting or grinding down protruding teeth followed by porcelain crowns—a method not recommended, as even the best artificial teeth cannot match natural teeth.
For patients with a short upper lip
Surgical procedures can be employed to increase upper lip height (referring to the height of the lip skin, excluding the vermilion border). The methods are described below:
Extraoral approach: Utilizes bilateral alar-nasal triangle flaps to increase upper lip height. This method provides immediate augmentation but leaves a scar at the nasolabial junction.
Intraoral Approach: An incision is made in the maxillary vestibular sulcus to identify and transect the bilateral quadratus labii superioris muscles. Mucosal tissue at the frenulum is appropriately extended to relax the upper lip. This method does not immediately increase lip height; its effectiveness depends on the patient's long-term lip muscle exercises.
With gingival exposure correction techniques, individuals no longer need to fear this condition. Timely surgery can restore a normal-appearing smile. However, it is crucial to select a reputable, licensed cosmetic dental hospital for this procedure to maximize success rates. We urge everyone to prioritize this consideration.