Smiling at oneself in a mirror only to notice your gums overshadowing your teeth can significantly dampen your confidence. This scenario, familiar to some, describes a condition known as a “gummy smile,” which has left many seeking subtle yet effective treatments. The dental world has recently made strides in addressing this issue, introducing innovative procedures that not only enhance physical appearance but also boost individuals’ self-esteem. Among the forefront of these advancements is lip repositioning surgery, shining as a beacon of hope for those desiring a harmonious smile without extensive interventions. This revolutionary method not only reshapes our understanding of dental beauty but also highlights the deep impact a smile can have on emotional health.
A groundbreaking study spearheaded by Dr. Asmita Dawadi, alongside Professor Manoj Humagain and Simant Lamichhane from the Department of Periodontics at Kathmandu University School of Medical Sciences, and Birat Sapkota from Canadore College, marks a significant breakthrough in the treatment of excessive gingival display (EGD) through lip repositioning surgery. Published in The Saudi Dental Journal in 2024, this research illuminates the positive outcomes of this innovative surgical technique on both aesthetic and psychological levels.
The team selected patients for a specialized lip repositioning operation aimed at achieving a more proportionate smile. They carefully evaluated key measures such as the length of the lips, their movement, and the visibility of the gums before and after the operation. The study also assessed the impact of surgery on patients’ anxiety related to their appearance and their discomfort levels at different postoperative stages.
“The surgery resulted in a noticeable decrease in gum visibility, contributing to a significant improvement in the dynamics of patients’ smiles,” Dr. Dawadi noted, reflecting on the clinical outcomes. “This aesthetic enhancement was supported by an increase in the length of the lips and a reduction in their excessive movement.” On a psychological level, she added, “Participants reported a marked reduction in anxiety about their appearance, with a significant drop in social appearance anxiety scores from the initial assessment to months after the surgery.”
Dr. Dawadi also highlighted the critical role of careful patient selection in achieving successful outcomes, “Understanding the specific needs and conditions of each patient was key to the success of this procedure. The reduction in the visibility of the gums, paired with the decrease in lip mobility, underscored the procedure’s effectiveness in enhancing smile aesthetics.” This research stands as a testament to the transformative power of lip repositioning surgery, not only in enhancing cosmetic appeal but also in elevating patients’ confidence and quality of life. The diligent work of Dr. Dawadi and her team opens the door to wider acceptance and application of this technique in the field of cosmetic dentistry, promising a future where more individuals can smile with confidence and joy.
JOURNAL REFERENCE
Asmita Dawadi, Manoj Humagain, Simant Lamichhane, Birat Sapkota, “Clinical and psychological impact of lip repositioning surgery in the management of excessive gingival display,” The Saudi Dental Journal, Year: 2024.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sdentj.2023.08.011.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr Asmita Dawadi – Received Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) in 2017 from Kathmandu University, Nepal. Served as a dental surgeon for 1 and half years at Dhulikhel Hospital (community hospital). Received Masters of Dental Surgery (MDS) in Periodontics in 2022 from Kathmandu University, Nepal. During masters, involved in many research including lip repositioning surgery, CBCT studies for assessing alveolar dimensions among Nepalese population and evaluating effectiveness of Guided tissue regeneration and bone graft in management of infrabony defect.
Dr. Manoj Humagain, a professor and Dean of the School of Medical Sciences at Kathmandu University, specializes in Periodontology and Oral Implantology.
With a strong research focus on periodontal and oral health, he has published 80 scientific articles, garnering over 850 citations.
