Gum Contouring: What Is It and Who Needs It?

Your gums play a vital role in your oral health and the overall appearance of your smile. But sometimes people feel like their gums sit too high, too low, or appear uneven, and it can affect their confidence. Whether you’re dealing with a “gummy” smile or receding gums, gum contouring is an amazing solution to reshape your gum line for a more balanced look.

If you’ve ever wondered what gum contouring is, how it works, or what it costs, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know so you can decide if this treatment is right for you.

What is gum contouring? 

Also known as gingivoplasty or a gum lift, gum contouring is a cosmetic dental procedure which reshapes the gums around your teeth. If you’ve ever felt self-conscious about having too much or too little gum showing when you smile, this treatment can help bring out the natural beauty of your teeth. It can also help with oral health by reducing pockets where bacteria might build up. 

How Does Gum Contouring Work? 

Gum contouring works by carefully removing excess gum tissue or reshaping uneven areas to improve the proportions of your smile. Here’s what you can expect throughout the process:

1. In the initial consultation, a dentist will assess your gums and their overall oral health to determine if the procedure is suitable. X-rays or digital scans may be taken to plan the reshaping process.
2. During the procedure you’ll be under local anesthesia to numb the gums (or even sedation in some cases) so you won’t feel a thing.
3. Your dentists will then reshape your gums using a precise soft-tissue laser that ensures minimal bleeding and faster healing. They may also recontour the underlying bone if needed to prevent gum regrowth.
4. While the process itself should be completely pain free, you may experience mild swelling, soreness or sensitivity in the few days after the procedure. Good aftercare is essential to help in your healing and recovery! Overall, healing should not take more than a couple weeks. 

How Much is Gum Contouring? 

Some clinics charge between $150 to $350 per tooth for gum contouring, but it’s important to note that these figures can vary based on individual needs and the pricing that your dental clinic offers. As a cosmetic procedure, it may also not be covered by insurance, however many clinics offer payment plans to help with the costs.

Cosmetique Dental: Your Contouring Journey Starts Here

At Cosmetique Dental, we believe that all smiles are beautiful! But we know the appearance of your gums and the shape of your smile can play a huge role in your confidence. That’s why we love helping our clients to achieve their dental dreams with gum contouring, teeth contouring, and more. Contact us today and discover your go-to cosmetic dentist in Sydney!