Gum Contouring

What Is Gum Contouring?

Gum contouring is a minor surgical procedure during which the gum line around the teeth is reshaped. The goal is to reveal the ideal tooth-to-gum proportion and improve the aesthetics of the smile, without affecting its health.

When It's Recommended

Gummy smile — when too much gum shows when you smile
Asymmetric or uneven gum heights
Teeth that look “short” because the gums cover too much of them
As part of Smile Design or a cosmetic restoration plan
Before placing porcelain veneers, for ideal “architecture”

Types of Gum Contouring

Laser Gum Contouring

The modern, minimally invasive approach. The laser reshapes the gum line precisely and simultaneously stops bleeding.

Benefits: minimal post-operative discomfort, faster healing.

Surgical Gum Contouring

Conventional method with a scalpel, under local anaesthesia. Indicated in more extensive cases or when bone reshaping is also needed.

The Procedure Step by Step

Planning:

Smile photography, proportion measurements and digital preview of the final result.

Local anaesthesia:

Painless numbing of the area.

Gum reshaping:

With laser or surgical instruments, the excess gum tissue is removed according to the pre-designed plan.

Finishing & instructions:

Result check, clear post-operative care instructions and follow-up scheduling.

Benefits

Immediately visible smile improvement
Minimally invasive (especially with laser)
Better gum-to-tooth harmony
Combines perfectly with whitening, veneers and smile design
Permanent result with proper gum care

Cases

Everything You Need to Know

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does gum contouring hurt?

Not during the procedure, thanks to local anaesthesia. Afterwards, there may be mild sensitivity for 2–3 days, easily managed with common painkillers.

When will I see the final result?

Improvement is visible immediately after the procedure. The final “settlement” of the gum shape takes 2–4 weeks.

Is the result permanent?

Yes, in most cases. Rarely, when there’s excessive upper lip mobility, a supplementary treatment may be needed (e.g. lip botox or lip surgery).

Does it affect the health of my teeth?

No. Gum contouring only removes excess gum tissue, without affecting the tooth or its attachment. In some cases it actually improves hygiene by making cleaning easier.

How much does gum contouring cost in Cyprus?

Cost depends on how many teeth are involved and the method (laser or conventional). At Dentistar, we provide a clear quote after clinical evaluation and design.

Does it combine with porcelain veneers?

Yes — and it’s one of the most common combinations. Gum contouring is done first (for ideal gum “architecture”), and then veneers are placed onto this new line.