Oris Dental Center

  A gummy smile can make people feel that their gums overpower their teeth when they smile. Clinically, this condition is called excessive gingival display and is usually diagnosed when more than three millimeters of gum tissue shows above the upper teeth. While it is not a medical problem, many people seek treatment to feel more confident and comfortable with their smile. A normal smile reveals very little gum tissue. When the gums appear too prominent, the cause may be genetic, related to how the teeth erupted, or linked to muscle movement in the upper lip. Studies suggest that up to 29 percent of people experience some degree of gummy smile, with women being affected more often than men. For those who avoid smiling in photos or feel self conscious while speaking, modern dentistry offers several effective solutions. What Causes a Gummy Smile? Understanding the cause is essential before choosing treatment. In some cases, the teeth do not fully erupt, leaving them partially co...

  Seeing a dark, furry coating on your tongue can be alarming. Many people immediately assume an infection or a serious illness. In most cases, it is neither. This condition is known as black hairy tongue, and while it looks unusual, it is generally harmless and temporary. Black hairy tongue occurs when dead skin cells build up on the surface of the tongue instead of shedding naturally. These cells collect on tiny projections called filiform papillae, which normally remain very short. When they fail to shed, they grow longer and trap bacteria, food debris, and pigments, giving the tongue a dark, hair like appearance. Common Causes of Black Hairy Tongue Poor oral hygiene is the most common cause. When the tongue is not cleaned regularly, debris accumulates easily. Smoking and chewing tobacco also play a major role, as nicotine and tar stain the elongated papillae. Diet matters more than people realize. Soft foods do not provide enough friction to wear down the papillae. Excess...