Recession of the gum leading to root exposure is a common result from tooth brushing trauma. Teeth appear longer and are sensitive to hot or cold drinks. They are also at risk of developing cavity on root and progressive bone loss. Newer technique using connective tissue graft can repair such defect with predictable result.
Symmetry
Symmetry around the centreline of our face is of great importance for an aesthetically pleasing smile. Even when this is not 100% possible, the illusion of symmetry should be created. The front two upper central incisors should be symmetrical in size, length and shape.
Horizontal Alignment
Ideally the smile line should be aligned so it is parallel to the horizontal.
Smile Line
The edges of your upper teeth should follow the curvature of the lower lip when you smile.
Smile Width
With a narrow smile, the side teeth are often in shadow. This leaves dark triangles at the corner s of the mouth. A wider smile allows one to see the ideal progression from the front to the back teeth, this is more attractive!
Gum Line
The gum line connects the highest points of the gum levels(zenith) of the upper teeth. This height must be symmetrical on both sides of the mouth. Ideally this line should follow the line of the upper lip, to ensure minimum gum exposure and optimum display of the teeth on smiling. The upper lip should touch where the teeth meet the gum, although a small amount of visible gum tissue above the teeth is acceptable (2mm).
Tooth axis
The main axis of the tooth inclines backward from tip to gum. This inclination increases from the incisors to the canines.
Contact point
It is lowest on central incisors and gradually move upwards towards the canines. The shape of the tooth will influence this contact point.
Relative tooth dimension and proportion
Due to individual variations, it is difficult to provide “magic numbers” like the golden proportion, to define adequate tooth dimension and relative proportion. Perception of symmetry , dominance and proportion are influenced by many factors, and should be adapted for every personal smile.
Incisal edge configuration
A young smile has a “gull” shape whereas a more mature smile exhibits a flatter appearance.
Interincisal Angles
Interincisal Angles are the small triangular spaces between the tips of the teeth. These are artistically created by the ceramist and dentist to ensure a natural look.
Lips
Lips are to teeth as a frame is to a picture! The shape, fullness and symmetry of your lips can be optimised for the ideal smile.
Healthy gums
Gum tissue should have a light pink colour and firm texture without any swelling or bleeding. The papillae must completely fill the gap between teeth to avoid any visible black triangles.
