Cosmetic Dentistry
Gum Contouring
Gum contouring reshapes the gumline to help teeth look more even and proportioned, when it is clinically appropriate for your smile.
What is gum contouring?
Gum contouring, sometimes called gum reshaping or gum recontouring, removes or reshapes small amounts of gum tissue to change how much of each tooth is visible. It may be used when teeth look short because they are partly covered by gum, when the gumline is uneven from tooth to tooth, or when a smile shows more gum than the patient would like.
Our clinic offers laser gum recontouring, which uses a dental laser to shape the tissue. Learn more about the technology on our clinic page.
Who may consider gum contouring?
Gum contouring may be worth discussing if you notice:
- A "gummy" smile, where a lot of gum shows when you smile
- Teeth that look short or square because gum covers part of them
- A gumline that sits higher on some teeth than others
- Uneven gums that would affect the look of planned veneers or bonding
A gummy smile can have several causes, including extra gum tissue, the way the upper lip moves, tooth position and jaw shape. Contouring addresses gum tissue only, so it is not the right answer for every case.
Only an exam can confirm whether gum contouring is suitable for you.
What to expect
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Assessment
Your dentist checks the health of your gums and the bone supporting your teeth. Gum disease is treated before any cosmetic reshaping.
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Planning the new gumline
Your dentist explains how much tissue may be reshaped and how it fits with any other treatments, such as veneers or bonding.
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Numbing
A local anesthetic is used so the area is numb during the procedure.
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Reshaping
The gum tissue is carefully reshaped with a dental laser to create a more even outline.
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Healing
Gums may feel tender for a few days. Your dentist will give you aftercare instructions and check your healing at a follow-up visit.
When gums are receding instead
Gum contouring is for gums that cover too much of the tooth. If your gums are pulling back and exposing the roots, a different kind of care is needed. Our periodontal services focus on keeping the gums and supporting bone healthy.
Gum reshaping can also be part of restorative treatment, for example to expose more of a tooth before a crown is placed. Your dentist will explain whether your case is cosmetic, functional or both.
Part of a bigger plan
Gum contouring is often combined with other cosmetic treatments as part of a smile makeover. Evening out the gumline first can help veneers or bonding look more natural and proportioned.
Cosmetic Dentistry
Curious about gum contouring?
Call 780-944-2828 or book an appointment online.