What is Gum Contouring?

Gum contouring is a procedure, also known as gingivoplasty or gingival sculpting, that modifies the shape of the gumline. Dentists use gum contouring to reshape gumlines for cosmetic reasons and for health reasons. When the gums are contoured for health reasons, this is often done under a dentist’s recommendation and as part of comprehensive treatment for periodontal disease, usually following pocket reduction or gum grafts. As a cosmetic treatment, gum contouring adjusts the appearance of gums that are uneven or asymmetrical, replenishes receding gumlines, rebalances “gummy smiles,” and addresses any other aesthetic issues that might bother the patient. While these aesthetic concerns pose few, if any, health risks, they can affect self-confidence and emotional well-being, making some people hesitant to smile or even fully open their mouths in public.

The gum contouring procedure is performed by a dental specialist and can involve removing excessive gum tissue, restoring areas where gum tissue is lacking, and redesigning the gumline to bring symmetry and balance to the smile. While gum contouring is most often an elective procedure, helping to resolve insecurities about or dissatisfaction with the appearance of the gumline, it can also be recommended by a dentist for health reasons. For example, gum contouring can be one of the steps in treating periodontal disease and stopping its spread, often used when nonsurgical methods are insufficient. Nonsurgical treatment methods usually include dental deep cleaning treatments and antibiotic therapies; these may be followed by pocket reduction surgery or gum tissue regeneration, each of which is often accompanied by gum contouring. When gum contouring is part of periodontal treatment, it may be covered, at least in part, by dental insurance, though you should consult with your insurance provider before embarking on any new treatments.

Typically performed in a single dental visit, gum contouring is most frequently done by a periodontal specialist or a cosmetic dentist. The procedure relies on local anesthetic to numb the area, making the procedure painless. Using a laser or scalpel, the dentist excises excess tissue and reshapes the gumline, holding the modified tissue in place with sutures. In cases of gum recession, the procedure might also necessitate supplementing gum tissue in areas of damage or lack with gum grafts. This graft tissue is often harvested from other areas of the mouth, like the palate, before it is sutured and sculpted in place. While the duration of the procedure depends on the amount of sculpting needed, it doesn’t often take more than a couple of hours.

Recovery from gum contouring is relatively quick, with tenderness or discomfort resolving after a few days, though more complex procedures may require longer recovery periods. Dentists recommend that patients stick to a soft, mild diet for the first few days after gum contouring while the gums are still tender, and most patients find relief from mild discomfort with over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications and cold compresses. When gum contouring is part of periodontal treatment, patients may also be provided with a prescription antibiotic mouth rinse to minimize risk of infection.

Patients receive specific aftercare instructions and can expect a follow-up appointment a week or two after gum contouring surgery, to ensure that healing is progressing and no infection is present. Whether your dentist or periodontist recommends it, or you simply wish to improve the appearance of your smile and enhance your self-esteem, it’s worth it to talk with your dentist to learn more about gum contouring and your own options for an improved, healthy smile.

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