Everyone wants their smile to be their social calling card. However, many people avoid putting their teeth front and center in their smiles. This phenomenon can be the result of a number of factors.
If you’re one of the millions of people who prefer to limit the “toothiness” of their grins, understanding these causes can go a long toward helping you achieve the radiant, confident smile you desire and deserve!
Lip Shape and Size
The anatomy of a person’s lips plays a big role in how prominently their teeth feature in their smile. Lip shape and size are largely genetic but can also be influenced by aging and lifestyle factors.
Individuals with fuller lips may naturally display less of their teeth when they smile. Also, the height and shape of a person’s upper lip can influence the visibility of your teeth.
Gum-to-Teeth Ratio
The proportion of gums to teeth, appropriately called the "gum-to-teeth ratio," affects the visibility of teeth while smiling. Some people naturally have more gum tissue, which can cover a significant portion of their teeth and result in a "gummy smile."
In cases like these, cosmetic procedures like gum contouring, in which the gums are reshaped and excess tissues removed, can help to reveal more of a person’s teeth.
Tooth Alignment and Jaw Structure
The alignment of a person’s teeth and the structure of their jaw can impact the way their teeth appear when smiling. For instance, teeth that are hidden behind other teeth as a result of overcrowding or misalignment may be less visible.
In these instances, orthodontic treatments like braces or clear aligners can help to move teeth into alignment, both improving the quality of an individual’s bite and ensuring that their teeth are more prominently displayed when smiling.
If you're concerned about your smile, consulting with a dentist or orthodontist can help you determine the underlying causes and identify potential solutions that will give you the smile you've always wanted!
Cosmetic Dentistry in Downey, CA
If you’re in the Downey area and want to learn more about how cosmetic dentistry can help your teeth assume a leading role in your radiant smile, contact dentist Dr. Christine Yang and the team at Christian Yang DDS to schedule a consultation!
