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Periodontics · single question

All of the following can cause excessive gingival display ('gummy smile') EXCEPT:

  1. Facial nerve paralysis
  2. Altered passive eruption
  3. Drug-induced gingival enlargement
  4. Vertical maxillary excess
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Correct answer: A. Facial nerve paralysis

  • A. Correct (the exception). Facial nerve paralysis causes drooping/asymmetry, NOT increased gingival display; it would not produce a gummy smile.
  • B. Altered passive eruption leaves gingiva covering more of the crown, causing gummy display.
  • C. Gingival enlargement increases visible gingiva.
  • D. Vertical maxillary excess (a long maxilla/lip dynamics) is a classic cause of gummy smile.

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