What is Gum Contouring?
Gum contouring is a cosmetic dental procedure that reshapes uneven or excessive gum tissue to improve the appearance of one’s smile. Often recommended to correct a “gummy smile,” this treatment carefully removes and sculpts gum tissue using a laser or scalpel. By adjusting the gumline, teeth can appear longer, more balanced, and more proportionate.
Patients who choose gum contouring often have excessive gum tissue, an uneven gumline, or gum overgrowth following orthodontic treatment.
What Happens During Gum Contouring?
Gum contouring is a minimally invasive procedure. The procedure typically takes one to two hours, depending on the extent of reshaping needed. Results are permanent, and most patients experience only mild tenderness for a few days as the gums heal.
Here’s what to expect:
Numbing. The dental professional will administer local anesthesia to ensure comfort throughout the procedure.
Marking the new gumline. A special marking pen is used to outline the ideal gumline and guide precise reshaping.
Excess tissue removal. The extra gum tissue is then removed via scalpel or handheld laser.
Bone reshaping. If necessary, the bone structure is reshaped underneath the gums.
Final contouring. The dental professional then contours the gums to the desired look.
Benefits of Gum Contouring
Gum contouring offers both cosmetic and functional advantages, including:
Improved smile aesthetic
The appearance of longer, more proportionate teeth
Easier oral hygiene by eliminating areas where plaque can accumulate
Looking to Improve Your Smile?
If you are interested in gum contouring or other smile makeover procedures, My Ogden Dentist is happy to help. Call our office today to schedule a consultation.