Gum Contouring

Gum contouring, also known as gum reshaping or gingival sculpting, is a dental procedure that reshapes your gumline. It's often used to improve the appearance of your smile by addressing concerns like:

• Gummy smile: This is when excess gum tissue covers too much of the teeth, making them appear short.
• Uneven gumline: Some people have gums that are uneven, with some areas higher than others.

Gum contouring can be done for cosmetic reasons, but there can also be times when it's necessary for oral health. For instance, your dentist might recommend it as part of treating gum disease.

Here's a breakdown of the procedure:

• Typically performed by a periodontist: This is a dentist who specializes in the gums and bones supporting the teeth.
• In-office procedure: Gum contouring is usually done in a dentist's office and takes about 1 to 2 hours.
• How it's done: There are different ways to perform gum contouring, depending on the desired outcome. Lasers, scalpels, or electric instruments might be used to remove or reshape the gum tissue.

Remember, while gum contouring can improve your smile, it's a surgical procedure with potential risks and side effects. Be sure to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.