Case details

Category

Gummy smile, median diastema, and deep bite

Case description

In this case study we have an obvious example of how straight teeth aren’t the only thing that influences smile aesthetics. Without invasive procedures (jaw operation, filing down teeth) we have completely changed how our patient looks. When she would smile before the orthodontic treatment there was too high visibility of the gums, popularly known as a gummy smile.

To solve this issue, all of the upper jaw teeth need to be raised by a couple of millimeters so that only a maximum of 1 millimeter of the gingiva is visible above the upper incisors. Such a procedure represents a great challenge and up until recently it was only possible through orthognathic jaw surgery. Still, by using innovative extraradicular mini implants (bona anchorages) and a fixed orthodontic appliance and by correctly applying a complex biomechanical strategy, we raised the upper dental arch and by doing so we eliminated the too high visibility of the gingiva (the gums) when smiling. This is proved by superimposing the x rays of the LL craniogram.

Along with the main goal which was of an aesthetic nature, we also fixed the deep bite, closed the gaps between the upper incisors and completed the occlusion in a way we always draw attention to and to which we strive. We completed a gingivectomy (the removal of extra dental tissue) after the treatment so that the teeth look larger and prettier without the need for filing or prosthetic work (crowns or veneers). IQDENT’s mission is always to complete treatment by noninvasive or minimally invasive solutions with maximum effect.

All six of the Andrews normal occlusion keys were fulfilled. The basis for long term stability, health and ideal chewing function being: the alignment of the upper and lower dental arch, upper canines set behind the lower canines in class I relation, the upper incisors “leaning” on the lower ones and passing them vertically at an ideal height of 2-3 millimeters, the absence of tooth rotation and the closure of all dental gaps.