Gummy smile has several causes, and multiple causes can be found at the root of the problem. The diagnosis of gummy smile can be made by the patient in front of the mirror by using a simple method, but the causes should be determined by the dentist.

Followings are some reasons for gummy smiles:

Excessive Growth of Gums (Fake Gummy Smile)

Medications, oral breathing habits, gingivitis, poor oral hygiene in patients who have orthodontic apparatus or genetic overgrowth of the gums (gum hyperplasia) are the main causes of gum growth.

Hyperactivity of Upper Lip

The amount of appearance of the gums in the gummy smile also depends on the muscle activity of the lip muscles. In this case, the muscles that are responsible to lift and close the lips have wider movements than usual. As a result, the hyperactivity of the upper lip muscle causes the gums to become more exposed when talking and smiling.

Excessive Vertical Bone Growth In Maxillary (Upper Jaw) Bone

This is the most common cause of gummy smile. In these individuals, the height of jawbone is higher than normal. Precise procedures such as surgical correction and tomography to analyze the amount of bone under the gums are needed.

Short Upper Lip

Shorter, thinner or retracted upper lip is the second most common cause of a gummy smile. In these people, the lower and upper lip does not close completely during the resting and relaxation position.