Gummy Smile

As the public becomes increasingly concerned with looking younger and healthy, aesthetic considerations will become increasingly more relevant in dental treatment planning. As such, dentists must define the basic tenets of an aesthetic smile extending that vision beyond simply "pretty teeth" to a concept whereby dentofacial harmony total is developed. Aesthetics is not simply a matter for restorative dentists - it uses restorative dentistry as one of the disciplines, but it is about beauty. The same rules that apply for a denture are therefore pertinent for crown and bridge and/or implants and must be applied in all aesthetic endeavors. Excessive gingival display is an esthetic concern both to the patient and the clinician, especially when restoration of the anterior teeth is indicated. Understanding the etiology and treatment options is crucial in the process of treatment of a patient with a gummy smile. The principles and concepts discussed in this book will lead the clinician toward achieving an esthetic result and patient satisfaction with the performed treatment.