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Gum contouring
Gum contouring is a dental procedure used to reshape the gum line to improve balance, proportion, and overall smile harmony. It may be carried out for cosmetic reasons or as part of a broader dental or restorative treatment plan.
At Harley Private Dental, gum contouring is carefully planned and delivered with precision, ensuring results that look natural and support long-term oral health.
What is gum contouring?
Gum contouring involves the careful reshaping of excess or uneven gum tissue around the teeth. This can help create a more balanced appearance by improving the proportion between the teeth and gums.
In some cases, gum contouring may also be required to support restorative treatments such as crowns, veneers, or orthodontic care.
When might gum contouring be recommended?
Gum contouring may be recommended if:
- You feel your teeth appear short or uneven
- You have excess gum tissue covering the teeth
- Your gum line is asymmetrical
- You have a “gummy smile”
- Gum reshaping is required as part of another dental treatment
A consultation is essential to determine whether gum contouring is appropriate and to assess gum health before treatment.
Cosmetic and clinical benefits
Gum contouring can help to:
- Improve smile balance and symmetry
- Enhance the appearance of teeth
- Support cosmetic dental treatments
- Create a more even gum line
Treatment is planned conservatively to maintain healthy gum tissue.
Who is suitable for gum contouring?
Gum contouring may be suitable if you:
- Have healthy gums
- Are seeking subtle improvements to smile aesthetics
- Require gum reshaping for restorative or orthodontic treatment
- Prefer a conservative, non-surgical dental approach
Suitability is assessed during consultation, including an evaluation of gum health and underlying bone structure.
What does the treatment involve?
- Consultation and assessment
Your dentist will assess your gums, teeth, and overall oral health and discuss your goals. - Treatment planning
The amount of reshaping required is planned carefully to ensure a natural result. - Gum contouring procedure
The procedure is carried out gently, usually under local anaesthetic to ensure comfort. - Aftercare and review
Clear aftercare guidance is provided, and healing is monitored as needed.
Treatment is typically straightforward, with minimal downtime.
What results can I expect?
Gum contouring is designed to achieve:
- A more even and balanced gum line
- Improved tooth proportions
- A refined, natural-looking smile
Results are usually visible once initial healing has taken place.
Aftercare and recovery
Following gum contouring, you may experience mild tenderness or swelling, which usually settles quickly. Aftercare advice may include:
- Gentle oral hygiene during healing
- Avoiding certain foods temporarily
- Attending review appointments if advised
Your dentist will provide personalised aftercare instructions.
Personalised care starts here
A consultation gives us time to understand your needs, explain your options clearly, and plan care that’s right for you.
Spread the cost of your treatment
We offer finance options through Chrysalis Finance to help make treatment costs more manageable. This allows eligible patients to spread the cost of treatment over time with clear, structured repayments. Finance is available at a representative 14.9% APR, subject to status and approval.
Our finance calculator provides an indicative example of how treatment costs may be spread into monthly payments based on a 14.9% APR. Simply enter the estimated treatment cost and select a repayment term to view a guide price. Figures shown are for illustration only. Final repayment amounts will be confirmed following consultation and finance approval.
Using the calculator does not commit you to treatment or finance. It is designed to help you understand your options clearly, without pressure. Full details, including repayment terms and eligibility, will always be explained before you proceed.
Frequently asked questions
Practical guidance to help you understand our care, treatments, and what to expect.
Is gum contouring painful?
The procedure is usually carried out under local anaesthetic and is generally comfortable. Any post-treatment tenderness is typically mild and temporary.
How long does healing take?
Initial healing usually occurs within a few days, with full healing over the following weeks. Your dentist will advise based on your treatment.
Is gum contouring permanent?
In most cases, results are long-lasting. Maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular dental check-ups supports long-term stability.
Can gum contouring be combined with other treatments?
Yes. Gum contouring is often carried out alongside cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, or restorative treatments as part of a comprehensive plan.
Our wonderful team
Our team includes experienced general dentists and clinicians with specialist skills. Together we deliver a wide range of treatments under one roof.
Our other treatments
Cosmetic dentistry
Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of teeth while maintaining oral health and function. Treatments may include whitening, composite bonding, veneers, and aesthetic restorations designed to create natural-looking, balanced results.
Medical aesthetics & wellness
Facial aesthetic treatments are designed to complement dental care by supporting facial balance and skin quality. Non-surgical options may include wrinkle management and dermal fillers, delivered with clinical precision and patient safety in mind.