Excessive gingival display is commonly reported by individuals who have undergone MARPE treatment, and it has become a concern that causes some potential patients to reconsider pursuing it.
What Is a Gummy Smile?
Gummy Smile is NOT Genetic
Although a gummy smile may appear in several family members, it is not considered a hereditary condition. Its development is influenced by various factors related to facial growth patterns and direction. Contributing elements include mouth breathing (and its duration), the presence of tongue-tie, tongue posture and habits, as well as compensatory tongue positioning. In some cases, maxillary growth may be accompanied by bone overgrowth and the formation of exostoses—areas of bone thickening along the buccal surface of the maxillary alveolar ridge
Prevention of Gummy Smile
The development of a gummy smile can often be prevented starting in early childhood. Among the various contributing factors, maxillary growth plays the most significant role. The maxilla (upper jaw) grows in multiple directions, and some growth patterns are more likely to result in a gummy smile than others. Ideally, the maxilla should grow in a counter-clockwise direction. This type of growth is supported when the tongue maintains proper posture against the palate, generating transpalatal pressure that encourages favorable development. In contrast, when the tongue consistently rests on the floor of the mouth, it fails to provide this counteractive force, allowing the maxilla to rotate downward—thereby increasing the risk of a gummy smile.
What MARPE does to Gummy Smile?
When a gummy smile is already present, MARPE treatment tends to follow the existing growth direction, which can further accentuate gingival display. However, if this condition is identified prior to treatment, it can often be successfully managed later through strategic tooth movements.
What to Expect with Tooth Movements?
At DrKoval Orthodontics, we have developed exclusive protocols specifically designed to recognize and prevent the development of a gummy smile. The dentoalveolar movements implemented following MARPE expansion in our practice are carefully planned to avoid the conventional retraction mechanics that can contribute to increased gingival display. Our protocols are uniquely tailored to both prevent and treat gummy smile formation—addressing the often-overlooked mechanics of tooth movement that can lead to or worsen this condition. Every treatment is meticulously guided by the patient’s individual smile dynamics, with progress documented through detailed photographs taken at each appointment to ensure optimal aesthetic outcomes.
Get Your Consultation for DrKoval Orthodontics Protocol of MARPE Treatment
If you're looking for the MARPE provider with a vast expertise and exclusive treatment protocols, don't wait to seek help. Dr. Svitlana Koval is here to provide expert diagnosis and treatment options in Boca Raton, FL. Reach out today and request an appointment. Your journey to better sleep, beauty, and nasal breathing starts here.