Quantitative evaluation of gummy smile in north Indian young population: A clinical study

Objectives: The objective is to clinically evaluate the prevalence, extent, and etiological factors of gummy smile (GS) in young north Indian individuals, with a specific focus on the association of gingival display (GD) with upper lip length and lip mobility. Material and Methods: A total of 205 participants (aged 18–30 years) were enrolled. Gingival display (GD) was measured over six maxillary anterior teeth during posed smiles. Upper lip length at rest and during smiling was recorded, and lip mobility was calculated using the formula ([A–S]/A) × 100. All measurements were done clinically using a millimeter ruler. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences v26.0, with significance set at P < 0.05. Results: The mean age of participants was 23.83 ± 3.4 years, where the GD was highest at the right maxillary lateral incisor. Female participants showed significantly greater GD from canine to canine (19.78 ± 6.41 mm) compared to males (12.28 ± 4.11 mm) ( P = 0.001). Of 205 cases, 148 were with mild and 57 with moderate GS. A significant association was observed between short upper lip and GD severity ( P = 0.012), while lip mobility showed no significant correlation ( P = 0.581). Conclusion: GS was more common in females and showed a significant association with short upper lip length. This study highlights the importance of assessing soft-tissue factors, especially lip length, in the diagnosis and treatment planning of GS.