Checklist of aesthetic features to consider in diagnosing and treating excessive gingival display (gummy smile)

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Excessive gingival display on smiling is one of the problems that negatively affect smile aesthetics and is, in most cases, related to several etiologic factors that act in concert. A systematic evaluation of some aspects of the smile and the position of the lips at rest can facilitate the correct assessment of these patients. OBJECTIVE: To present a checklist of dentolabial features and illustrate how the use of this record-keeping method during orthodontic diagnosis can streamline decision making in treating the gummy smile, which usually requires knowledge of orthodontics and other medical and dental specialties.