What Is Gum Contouring?
Gum contouring, also called gum reshaping or tissue sculpting, is a procedure that changes the shape of the gum line. The dentist or periodontist removes excess gum tissue, repositions it, or adds tissue (using a gum graft) to create a more balanced, symmetrical appearance. The clinical term for removing gum tissue is gingivectomy.
The gum line frames the teeth. When gums cover too much of the tooth surface, teeth can look short or square. When gums are uneven, one side of the smile may look different from the other. Gum contouring addresses these issues by adjusting how much tooth is visible and ensuring the gum line is symmetrical.
Cosmetic vs. Functional Gum Contouring
Gum reshaping is performed for different reasons, and the reason affects both the approach and whether insurance may cover the procedure.
Cosmetic Gum Contouring
Cosmetic gum contouring is done to improve the appearance of the smile. The most common cosmetic reason is a gummy smile, where the upper gums are visible when smiling because excess tissue covers the upper portions of the teeth. Other cosmetic reasons include an uneven gum line where one tooth appears longer or shorter than its neighbors, and gum tissue that makes healthy teeth look small or stubby.
Functional (Clinical) Gum Contouring
Functional gum contouring is performed when there is a clinical need to access more tooth structure. Common functional reasons include crown lengthening, where gum and sometimes bone tissue is removed to expose enough tooth structure to place a dental crown on a broken or decayed tooth. It may also be performed as part of periodontal treatment to eliminate deep gum pockets around teeth affected by gum disease, or to correct gum overgrowth caused by certain medications (such as anti-seizure drugs, calcium channel blockers, or immunosuppressants).
Laser Gum Contouring vs. Scalpel Surgery
Gum contouring can be performed with a dental laser or a traditional scalpel. Both methods achieve the same result, but the experience and recovery differ.
Laser Gum Contouring
A dental laser uses concentrated light energy to remove or reshape gum tissue. The laser seals blood vessels as it cuts, which means less bleeding during the procedure and reduced swelling afterward. Most patients experience faster healing with laser treatment compared to scalpel surgery. Laser gum reshaping is the preferred method for cosmetic cases and straightforward tissue removal. The procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes.
Scalpel (Traditional) Surgery
Scalpel-based gum contouring uses a surgical blade to remove or reposition tissue. It is still used for cases that involve bone reshaping (osseous crown lengthening), complex tissue repositioning, or areas where a laser may not be precise enough. Scalpel surgery typically involves more bleeding during the procedure and requires sutures. Recovery is slightly longer than with laser treatment, usually 2 to 3 weeks.
What Happens During Gum Contouring
Gum contouring is usually performed in a dental office or periodontal practice. Most cases are outpatient procedures completed in a single visit.
Before the Procedure
Your dentist or periodontist will examine your gums, take measurements, and may use a pen or digital imaging to mark the new gum line so you can preview the result. X-rays may be taken to evaluate the bone level beneath the gums. If bone reshaping is needed, this will be discussed before scheduling the procedure. You will receive instructions on any medications to avoid before surgery.
During the Procedure
Local anesthesia numbs the treatment area. You will be awake but should not feel pain. The dentist or periodontist uses the laser or scalpel to remove excess tissue and reshape the gum line according to the plan. If bone recontouring is needed (crown lengthening), the provider will fold back the gum tissue, reshape the underlying bone, and reposition the tissue. The entire procedure takes 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on the extent of reshaping.
Immediately After
With laser treatment, there are usually no sutures. With scalpel surgery, sutures may be placed and are typically removed after 7 to 10 days. You can usually drive yourself home and return to desk work the same day or the next day. Your provider will give you specific aftercare instructions.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery from gum contouring is generally straightforward, but the timeline depends on whether a laser or scalpel was used and whether bone was reshaped.
For the first 2 to 3 days, expect mild soreness, swelling, and sensitivity around the treated area. Over-the-counter pain relief (ibuprofen or acetaminophen) is usually sufficient. Eat soft foods and avoid anything spicy, acidic, crunchy, or very hot. Do not brush directly on the treated gum tissue for the first few days; use a gentle rinse instead.
By the end of the first week, most patients treated with a laser feel close to normal. Scalpel cases may take 2 to 3 weeks for full gum healing. Avoid strenuous exercise for the first 2 to 3 days, as elevated blood pressure can increase bleeding. The gum tissue will continue to mature and settle into its final shape over 3 to 6 months.
When to Call Your Provider
- Bleeding that does not stop after 20 minutes of gentle pressure
- Increasing pain or swelling after the first 3 days
- Fever above 100.4 F (38 C)
- Pus or unusual discharge from the treatment area
- A reaction to prescribed medications
How Much Does Gum Contouring Cost?
Gum contouring costs range from $300 to $3,000, depending on the number of teeth treated, whether laser or scalpel is used, whether bone reshaping is needed, and your geographic location. Costs vary by location, provider, and case complexity.
Cosmetic gum contouring on a few teeth using a laser may cost as little as $300 to $600. A full smile gum reshaping (6 to 10 upper teeth) typically ranges from $1,000 to $3,000. Crown lengthening that involves bone recontouring costs more, generally $1,000 to $3,000 per tooth area.
Dental insurance typically does not cover cosmetic gum contouring. However, functional procedures like crown lengthening (needed for restorative work) or gum contouring to treat periodontal disease may be partially covered. Check with your insurance provider before scheduling. Many dental and periodontal offices offer payment plans or accept FSA and HSA funds.
Who Performs Gum Contouring: Periodontist vs. Cosmetic Dentist
Both periodontists and general or cosmetic dentists perform gum contouring. The right provider depends on the complexity of your case.
A periodontist is a dental specialist with 3 years of additional residency training beyond dental school, focused on the gums, bone, and supporting structures of the teeth. Periodontists are the most qualified providers for cases involving bone reshaping, gum disease, or complex tissue management. They are also experienced with cosmetic gum contouring.
A general dentist or cosmetic dentist may perform straightforward laser gum contouring for cosmetic purposes. If your case involves only soft tissue removal on a few teeth and no bone work, a general dentist with laser training and experience may be appropriate. For anything more involved, a periodontist is the better choice.
Find a Periodontist Near You
Every periodontist on My Specialty Dentist has verified specialty credentials. Search by location to find periodontists experienced in gum contouring and crown lengthening, review their qualifications, and schedule a consultation.
Search Periodontists in Your Area