If you feel your smile shows too much gum or that your teeth appear shorter than you’d like, gum contouring could be the solution. This simple procedure reshapes the gum line to reveal more of your natural tooth, creating a more balanced and attractive smile.
By carefully reducing and reshaping excess gum tissue, gum contouring improves the proportions between teeth and gums, giving your smile a natural lift. The result is teeth that look longer, more even, and in harmony with your facial features.
Sometimes, Gum Contouring is also used to expose more tooth structure for a crown or filling so that the crown is less likely to come off.
The treatment is carried out in a single visit under local anaesthetic, and although you may experience some mild tenderness afterwards, most patients are pleasantly surprised at how straightforward and comfortable the process feels. Healing is usually quick, and the transformation in your smile can be dramatic.
Reasons for Gum Contouring
To correct a gummy smile
To even out an uneven gum line
To make teeth appear longer or more proportional
To expose more tooth structure for crowns or fillings
To remove diseased tissue from periodontal issues
Benefits of Gum Contouring
Creates a more balanced and attractive smile
Reveals more of your natural teeth for improved proportions
Quick procedure – usually completed in one visit
Minimal discomfort and fast recovery
Long-lasting, permanent results
Boosts confidence in your smile
Risks and Considerations
Temporary swelling or tenderness
Possible gum regrowth (rare, if underlying causes aren’t addressed)
Examples
Case 1
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After gum contouring in the healing phase.
After placement of the composite bonding
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Case 2
This lady felt that she showed too much gum when she smiled and was anxious as her veneers kept coming off. Gum raising not only reduced the amount of gum on show, but it also gives more of tooth structure for the final new veneers to be bonded on to. This means that the veneers are more stable and less likely to be knocked off.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is gum contouring?
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Gum contouring is a minor procedure that reshapes the gum line to reduce excess gum tissue and reveal more of your natural teeth. It creates a more balanced, attractive smile, especially for patients who feel their teeth look too short or their smile is too “gummy.”
Is gum contouring painful?
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No – the procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic, so you won’t feel pain during treatment. Afterwards, you may experience some mild tenderness or swelling, but this usually settles quickly with simple aftercare.
How long does the procedure take?
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Most gum contouring treatments can be completed in a single visit, often within one hour. The exact time depends on how many teeth are being treated and the amount of gum tissue being reshaped.
Is gum contouring permanent?
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Yes. Once excess gum tissue has been removed and reshaped, it does not typically grow back. With good oral care, your results should be long-lasting.
What is the recovery like after gum contouring?
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Recovery is usually straightforward. You may have mild discomfort for a few days, but most patients return to normal activities immediately. Your dentist will give you simple aftercare advice, such as sticking to soft foods and gentle brushing while your gums heal.
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