Gum contouring
Gum contouring reshapes the gum line so that your teeth look more in proportion with your face. It is often combined with veneers or crowns to create a balanced smile.
Overview
Gum contouring is a cosmetic procedure in which the dentist numbs the area and carefully reshapes the gum line, removing a small amount of gum tissue where needed. It can reduce a 'gummy smile' and correct uneven gums. Most patients return to normal life quickly, with mild sensitivity for a short time.
- Anaesthesia
- Local anaesthetic
- Downtime
- Usually short
- Often combined with
- Veneers or crowns
- Aim
- An even, balanced gum line
When teeth look short or the gum line is uneven, the gums can draw attention when you smile. Gum contouring creates a smoother, more even gum line that suits your teeth, lips and smile line.
If some areas have receded or thin gum, a small gum graft may be suggested to improve symmetry and protect the teeth.
Is it right for you?
Often suitable when
- Your smile shows a lot of gum and teeth look short
- Your gum line is uneven
- You are planning veneers or crowns and want symmetrical gums
- Your gums are otherwise healthy
Another option may be better when
- A gummy smile caused mainly by jaw position or lip movement may need other treatment
- Active gum disease must be treated first
- If teeth are short due to wear, restorations may be part of the solution
How the treatment works
The area is numbed, then the gum line is reshaped with precise instruments, removing a small amount of tissue where needed. We plan the new gum line with you, often looking in the mirror together.
Assessment and planning
We assess your gums, bone level and smile line. Removing gum must not compromise the health of the tooth, so we check this before planning any change.
Treatment stages
Assessment
Gum health, bone level and smile line are checked.
Planning together
We agree the new gum line with you.
Contouring
The gum line is reshaped under local anaesthetic.
Healing
Gums settle over the following weeks before any final restorations.
Recovery and aftercare
Mild tenderness and sensitivity for a short time is normal. Eat soft, cool foods for the first days and follow cleaning instructions.
Risks and limitations
- Temporary tenderness and bleeding
- Gum may partly regrow if bone level was not considered
- Sensitivity if root surface is exposed
- Asymmetry requiring touch-up
Longevity and maintenance
When planned around the underlying bone, the result is generally stable. Healthy gums depend on good daily cleaning.
What affects the cost
- Number of teeth involved
- Whether a gum graft is needed
- Whether it is part of a larger cosmetic plan
We do not publish fixed prices because every plan is different. After reviewing your X-rays or scans, we send a written, itemised quote.
If you are travelling to us
Gum contouring is usually done early in a cosmetic plan so the gums can settle before veneers or crowns are finalised. Your plan will show the order and timing.
Frequently asked questions
Does gum contouring hurt?
The area is numbed during the procedure. Mild tenderness afterwards usually passes quickly.
How long before I can have veneers?
Your dentist will advise; gums need time to settle before final restorations.
Written by the Rubi Smile patient team to explain treatment options in plain language. Clinical review by a Rubi Smile dentist is scheduled before publication. Pending clinical review
Related treatments
Smile Makeover
A personalised combination of treatments to change the colour, shape and balance of your smile.
Porcelain Veneers
Thin E-max or Empress ceramic shells that change colour, shape and symmetry with minimal preparation.
Dental Crowns
A custom cap that restores the shape, strength and appearance of a damaged tooth.
Start with a conversation, not a commitment.
Send us your questions and, if you have them, recent X-rays or photos. A dentist reviews your case and our coordinators explain the options, the likely timeline and the cost before you plan any travel.