A Balanced, Even Gumline, From £45 Per Jaw

What Is Gum Contouring?

Gum contouring (also called gum reshaping or gingivectomy) is a cosmetic dental procedure that removes or reshapes excess gum tissue to create a more even, proportional gumline. It is a quick, minimally invasive treatment that can make a dramatic difference to the appearance of your smile.

The procedure is most commonly performed using a dental laser or electrosurgery tool, which allows your dentist to precisely sculpt the gum tissue with minimal bleeding and faster healing. In some cases, traditional surgical instruments are used.

Gum contouring addresses several common concerns. If your teeth appear short because excess gum tissue covers too much of the tooth surface, removing that tissue reveals the full length of the tooth. If your gumline is uneven, sitting higher on some teeth than others, contouring creates a smooth, symmetrical line. Both corrections can significantly improve the overall look of your smile.

The procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes per jaw and is carried out under local anaesthesia. Most patients return to their normal routine the same day.

Am I a Good Candidate?

Gum contouring may be right for you if you have:

• A "gummy smile" where excessive gum tissue makes your teeth appear short
• An uneven gumline that sits at different heights across your teeth
• Excess gum tissue that you want reduced for cosmetic reasons before veneers or crowns
• Healthy gums without active gum disease or infection

If you have active gum disease (periodontitis), your dentist will need to treat that first before any cosmetic contouring. Gum contouring removes tissue and does not add it, if your gums have receded and you have too little gum tissue, a gum graft may be more appropriate. Your dentist assesses your gums during your consultation and recommends the best approach.

Gum contouring is particularly effective when combined with veneers or crowns. By creating a balanced gumline first, your dentist can then place restorations that look perfectly proportional, resulting in a natural, harmonious smile.

What Happens During Your Treatment?

The Procedure (30-60 Minutes Per Jaw)

Your dentist numbs the area with local anaesthesia. Using a dental laser or electrosurgery tool, your dentist carefully removes and reshapes the excess gum tissue, sculpting a smooth, even gumline. The laser seals the tissue as it works, which means minimal bleeding and no stitches in most cases.

Your dentist checks the symmetry and proportions throughout the procedure, making fine adjustments to ensure a natural, balanced result. The entire process takes 30 to 60 minutes per jaw.

After the Procedure

You can return to your hotel or home the same day. Your gums will feel tender and slightly swollen, this is normal. Your dentist provides aftercare instructions and may prescribe a gentle antimicrobial mouthwash. If gum contouring is part of a larger treatment plan (veneers, crowns), the next stage is typically scheduled a few days later once the gums have settled.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery from gum contouring is straightforward, and most patients are back to their normal routine within a day or two.

Day 1: Your gums will feel tender and may be slightly swollen. This is normal. Stick to soft, cool foods (yoghurt, smoothies, mashed potatoes) and avoid spicy, crunchy, or very hot foods. Use a gentle antimicrobial mouthwash if prescribed. Avoid brushing the treated area directly, use the mouthwash to keep it clean.

Days 2-3: Tenderness begins to ease. You can gradually reintroduce warmer, softer foods. Continue gentle oral hygiene around the treated area.

Week 1: Most of the tenderness and swelling has resolved. You can return to your normal brushing routine using a soft-bristled toothbrush. The gum tissue is healing well.

Weeks 2-4: Full healing is typically complete within 2 to 4 weeks. Your new gumline settles into its final position. If you are having veneers or crowns placed, this healing period is factored into your treatment schedule.

Long-term: Gum contouring results are permanent. The removed tissue does not grow back. Maintaining good oral hygiene keeps your gums healthy and your new gumline looking its best.

Risks and Considerations

Gum contouring is a low-risk cosmetic procedure, particularly when performed with a dental laser. However, as with any dental treatment, there are considerations.

Tenderness and swelling: Expected for the first few days after the procedure. This is part of the normal healing process and resolves quickly with gentle care.

Bleeding: Minimal with laser gum contouring. Some slight bleeding or oozing is normal in the first 24 hours. If you experience heavy or prolonged bleeding, contact your dental team.

Infection: Rare. Following your aftercare instructions (gentle mouthwash, avoiding irritants) minimises this risk. Contact your dental team if you notice unusual swelling, discharge, or fever.

Uneven results: Your dentist takes care to create a symmetrical gumline. In rare cases, a minor touch-up may be needed once healing is complete.

Sensitivity: Some patients notice increased tooth sensitivity after gum contouring, as previously covered tooth surfaces are now exposed. This usually settles as the gums heal. Using a toothpaste for sensitive teeth can help in the interim.