Don’t hide that smile!

We’ve all felt the effects of a genuine smile. That bright grin has the power to light up someone’s entire face, spreading immediate joy from one person to the next. The sad truth is not everyone feels comfortable with their natural smile. You might be one of those people who goes through life hiding their joyful grin from their friends. Sure, you know they won’t judge you. But there’s still a bit of worry and fear within that keeps you from sharing your brilliant smile. 

A common reason many people hide their smile is because of something known as a gummy smile, or when the gumline shows too prominently. For some people, this doesn’t bother them. But for others, it can be a huge blow to their self-esteem.

If you are one of the people who’d like a more balanced smile, the Valley Dental Clinic team has solutions for you! We are only a short drive from Anchorage and look forward to helping you feel more confident in your smile.

Treatment Options for a Gummy Smile

Each gumline is completely unique from person to person, and a gummy smile directly reflects that. This prominent gumline can be caused by excessive gum tissue, short teeth, or even a shorter upper lip. No matter the reason, there are solutions out there to help you achieve the smile of your dreams.

When you first look into cosmetic dentistry treatments, it can feel overwhelming. There are so many options, and you might not be completely sure what each one does. That’s exactly why our team of trained professionals is here to guide you step-by-step and answer any questions you might have.

We offer two main options to treat a gummy smile: crown lengthening and Bioclear bonding.

Crown Lengthening

If your gummy smile is caused by an excess of gum tissue, crown lengthening might be the solution for you. During this simple surgical procedure, Dr. Rob will remove any excess tissue or bone that might be hindering your pristine smile. This is the perfect solution for those who feel as though their visible teeth are too short, making it nearly impossible for them to show off their pearly whites. 

Bioclear Bonding

Bioclear bonding is the answer if you want to keep your natural tooth intact. This procedure is quick, cost-effective, and long-lasting, making it the perfect solution for many different issues including a gummy smile, chips, cracks, misshapen teeth, or even severe tooth discoloration. The Bioclear method is used for both cosmetic and restorative procedures, as it is versatile and completely customizable to the patient. It can even be used to create lower-maintenance veneers or crowns!

Of course, if Bioclear bonding or crown lengthening aren’t the right fit for you, we are here to help you find the right match to fit your lifestyle. We have plenty of cosmetic dentistry options up our sleeves so be sure to ask all of your questions during your consultation!

Preparing for Your Treatment

The first step in any cosmetic dentistry treatment is a consultation. Dr. Rob will want to know how you want your perfect smile to look, that way he can help you create a game plan that is unique to you.

The treatment process can vary based on what options you choose. Crown lengthening can be done in a single visit. Afterward, you will be sent home with detailed care instructions that tell you what you should eat and drink and what to do if you experience any bleeding. It’s not uncommon to have some discomfort and swelling in the day or two following treatment, so it is suggested that patients rest and ice the affected areas in twenty-minute intervals. To help ease any discomfort, NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, are also typically prescribed. 

To complete Bioclear treatments, Dr. Rob will place a clear plastic mold around your teeth. Next, he will color-match Bioclear composite resin to your existing teeth and then pipe it in between your teeth and the mold to create a new smile. Dr. Rob will then sculpt this resin into your dream smile and harden it with a special curing light. The process is painless, easy, and can be done in a single appointment, leaving you with a smile you’ll look forward to sharing with others!

It’s time for a balanced and confident smile!

If you are insecure about your smile, know that there are solutions right here in Alaska. For a gummy smile, Bioclear treatments or crown lengthening might be the best options for you. If there is an underlying issue, rest assured that Dr. Rob will help get to the bottom of it to ensure you have a perfectly healthy smile that will last you a lifetime.

Are you ready for a consultation? No matter what kind of cosmetic dentistry treatment you need, you can trust that the team at Valley Dental Clinic has the ability to help you achieve the balanced and confident smile you deserve.

Appointments can be easily made online, so don’t wait to get it on your calendar!