Lip Repositioning

Many people show an excessive amount of gum tissue when they smile. This affliction is commonly referred to as a “gummy smile”. There are a few options that can help improve a gummy smile such as laser gum recontouring and jaw surgery. Laser gum recontouring is minimally invasive but has limitations. Orthognathic surgery to reset the upper jaw extensive recovery time; therefore, it is typically the least desirable treatment options for adult patients.

Thankfully, there is a third, minimally invasive and exciting new option for those looking to correct their gummy smile! The procedure is called lip repositioning. Lip repositioning was first made popular by the ABC show Extreme Makeover. Initially developed for denture patients to help adapt to bone loss and develop a better fitting denture, the lip repositioning procedure has been modified to address the issue of excessively gummy smiles.

The lip repositioning procedure involves removing a small window of tissue inside the upper lip. Once the tissue is removed, the upper lip is no longer able to rise excessively, and, instead, allows the patient’s smile to rest at the most ideal point of the upper teeth and the upper gum line.

This procedure is typically performed by an oral surgeon or periodontist. If you are a candidate for this procedure, we would be happy to give you a referral at your consultation. Oftentimes, this procedure is accompanied by laser gum recontouring and veneers as a part of a full smile makeover to help you achieve the smile of your dreams.

If you would like more information on lip repositioning or if you would like to know if you are a good candidate for lip repositioning, please call our office at 480-860-0092 to set up a consultation.