Gum Reshaping

Gum Shaping & Contouring

Gum reshaping is a cosmetic procedure that contours and re-sculpts your gumline. 

If you have a gummy smile, long teeth, or an uneven gum line, then gum contouring can help improve the appearance of the gums and teeth.

The gum sculpting process involves either removing or restoring gum tissue around the teeth.

If you are self-conscious about your gummy smile, or the long appearance of your teeth, then get in touch with one of our dental specialists today on 020 8224 7562.

The team here at the Gentle Dental Cosmetic centre will be able to talk through your various options.

What causes uneven gums?

Your gums can become uneven, too high or too low for a number of reasons.

If you have short teeth – where your gums cover a large proportion of your teeth, making them look small – then this could be a result of your genetics, a health problem or certain medications.

If you have high gums, and your teeth look long, then this is a condition often caused by gum recession.

Gum recession occurs when the tissue of your gums retracts from the tooth and reveals more of the tooth’s surface.

Causes of gum recession include: 

• Ageing
• Poor oral health
• Brushing your teeth too hard
• Gingivitis
• The build-up of plaque bacteria

Gum recession can lead to a number of dental problems such as tooth loss and decay.

It can also be a sign of periodontal disease.

Do I need gum contouring?

If you are self-conscious about your gum line, then there are ways to change and reshape it to restore your confidence.

Altering the way your gums look is not a medically necessary procedure, it is an elective treatment.

However, there may be situations where gum contouring is medically necessary.

For example, if you have receding gums, then this increases the risk of gum disease and therefore having your gums restored will help reduce the risk of developing infections.

Restoring the gums aims to reduce the pockets between your teeth which are prone to bacteria and decay, and improve the overall look, structure and health of your mouth.

Everything you need to know about the procedure

Who performs the gum reshaping procedure?

If you need or choose to have your gums contoured, then most general and cosmetic dentists, as well as periodontists can perform the procedure.

Before you undergo any treatment, it is important to discuss the procedure fully, so you are comfortable and confident with the process.

Because it is a treatment that is performed by dentists, your gum contouring appointment will be here at the Gentle Dental Clinic.

What happens during the procedure?

• The first step of the procedure will usually include your dentist drawing a line to mark the desired new gum line.
• This ensures that they can visualise exactly how much gum to remove.
• A local anaesthetic will be applied to numb the area. If you experience any discomfort at all during the procedure, you must notify your dentist right away.
• Your dentist will remove your excess gums with a small scalpel or laser to even out the gumline.
• If you need gums restored due to recession, then a small amount of gum tissue will be taken from another area of your mouth and used to reseal your gum tissue.

Is the procedure painful?

The procedure itself should not be painful as an anaesthetic is used during the treatment.

As the anaesthetic begins to wear off, they may feel sensitive or tender in the initial stages after your treatment.

Recovery and aftercare

Our dentists will provide you with directions for aftercare, which may include advice such as:

• Ease any pain by taking over-the-counter pain relievers as directed by your dental specialist. Avoid aspirin as this can cause bleeding.
• Stick to soft and cool foods such as yoghurt, pasta, or soft vegetables for the first couple of days post-surgery.
• Your dentist will give you specific guidance on how to brush your teeth effectively.

Is gum contouring permanent?

Gum reshaping is a permanent dental procedure; any gum tissue that is removed will not grow back. It provides a long-term solution to an uneven or gummy smile.

Cost of gum contouring UK

Gum reshaping usually costs between £150-£250, depending on the complexity of treatment.

See our full list of fees here.

We also offer 0% finance options to help make our treatment accessible and affordable for everyone.

Because gum contouring is mostly a cosmetic procedure, it is not usually included on the NHS.

However, in rare cases where the gumline is affecting the medical and oral health of an individual, it may be possible to get NHS funding for gum sculpting.

Start your journey to your dream smile today by calling us on 020 8224 7562 or booking an appointment online.