Gummy smiles: Etiologies, diagnoses & formulating a clinically effective treatment protocol

Abstract

The phenomenon of a gummy smile, characterized by an excessive display of gingival tissue during smiling, is primarily a subjective clinical observation rather than a quantifiable cephalometric measurement. The variability in underlying causes, ranging from soft tissue to hard tissue origins, necessitates a nuanced approach for diagnosis and treatment. This communication offers a comprehensive overview of the multifaceted etiology of gummy smiles, highlighting the importance of distinguishing between soft and hard tissue origins. The focus is on orthodontic treatment approaches tailored to address moderate to severe gummy smiles. The communication aims to enhance clinicians' understanding of diverse orthodontic strategies applicable to correct gummy smiles stemming from different etiological factors, facilitating more precise and effective treatment outcomes aligned with patient expectations.