Gum Contouring & Gingival Recontouring
The frame matters as much as the teeth.
Gentle reshaping of uneven or excess gum tissue to balance your smile line and reveal more of your natural teeth.
What is gum contouring & gingival recontouring?
Gum contouring reshapes the gumline by removing or sculpting small amounts of gum tissue. It evens out a gumline that sits too low or unevenly, and can make short-looking teeth appear longer. Its main limitation: if bone sits too close to the gum, a periodontist may need to perform crown lengthening instead.
Who is a candidate?
Often a good fit
- Uneven gumline
- Teeth that look short
- Mild gummy smile
- Gum overgrowth from braces
Needs extra care or planning
- Active gum disease
- Thin gum tissue
- Bone level too close to the gum
When an exam is needed: An exam and gum measurements show how much tissue can safely be reshaped.
Problems it can address
Limitations: Cannot fix gummy smiles caused by jaw structure or an overactive lip.
Benefits and disadvantages
Benefits
- Quick visit
- Natural-looking result
- Pairs well with veneers or bonding
- Usually permanent
Disadvantages
- Some tenderness for a few days
- Not for every gum type
- May need a specialist for bone reshaping
The treatment process
- 1
Smile design
We plan the ideal gumline with photos and a mockup.
- 2
Numbing
The area is numbed for comfort.
- 3
Reshape
Tissue is gently sculpted.
- 4
Review
We check symmetry and comfort.
- 5
Follow-up
Healing check in 1–2 weeks.
Timeline: Usually one 45–90 minute visit.
Recovery and aftercare
What to expect
Discomfort: Mild tenderness for a few days.
Downtime: Most return to work the same or next day.
Aftercare
- Soft foods for 2–3 days
- Brush gently
- Rinse with salt water
Call us right away if you notice
- Bleeding that won't stop
- Swelling increasing after day 3
- Fever
Longevity and outcomes
Results are typically permanent.
What affects your result
- Gum health
- Brushing technique
- Bone level
Possible complications
- Tissue regrowth (rare)
- Sensitivity
Cost and payment options
Cost depends on how many teeth are involved. You'll get a written, itemized quote before treatment begins, and we'll check your insurance benefits for you.
What affects the price
- Number of teeth
- Need for specialist
- Combined cosmetic work
Insurance & financing
We accept most PPO plans and offer financing through CareCredit, Sunbit and others.
Comparison with alternatives
Crown lengthening
Also reshapes bone; done by a periodontist.
Veneers or bonding
Change tooth shape instead of gums.
Botox for gummy smile
Relaxes the lip muscle temporarily.
Clinical case examples
Real, patient-authorized cases for this treatment are being added soon, with diagnosis, reasoning and results.
View our Before & After Gallery →Why choose Neo Dental?
Patient reviews
Read what our patients say, in their own words, on independent review sites.
Frequently asked questions
Does it hurt?+
The area is numbed; mild tenderness afterward is normal.
Will gums grow back?+
Usually not.
How long to heal?+
About 1–2 weeks.
Can I combine it with veneers?+
Yes, it's often done first.
Is it covered by insurance?+
Usually not when cosmetic; we'll check.
Do you refer complex cases?+
Yes, to a trusted periodontist when bone needs reshaping.
Your care team & booking
Dr. Sol Shahri
General and cosmetic dentist leading every treatment plan at Neo Dental. This page was medically reviewed by Dr. Sol Shahri.
Meet the team →Related treatments
Not sure if you need gum contouring & gingival recontouring?
Book an exam and we'll explain every option, including the most conservative one.
Book your visit