Comparative evaluation of conventional versus modified lip repositioning surgery for gummy smile: A Two-year follow-up study

Abstract

Excessive gingival display can be managed by a variety of treatment modalities, depending on the specific diagnosis. Lip repositioning surgery is a largely unknown and underutilized treatment modality for excessive gingival display. The aim of the present study was to minimize gingival display by comparing the modified lip repositioning procedure with the conventional lip repositioning procedure. A total of 12 patients with gummy smile were selected for the study. The patients were randomly divided into two groups (group A and group B), consisting of six patients each. Group A patients were treated with conventional lip repositioning procedure and group B patients were treated with modified lip repositioning procedure. The procedure resulted in a narrower vestibule and restricted muscle pull, thereby reducing gingival display during smiling. The lip repositioning technique that was meant to decrease the amount of gingival display proved to be more conservative and provided good aesthetic outcome.