Understand the gumline before changing it
Gingivoplasty and gum contouring
Gingivoplasty or gum contouring reshapes selected gum tissue. It may be discussed for symmetry or to expose more visible tooth structure, but the cause of the gumline appearance must be evaluated before choosing treatment.
What gum contouring can address
Contouring may refine an uneven gumline or reduce selected excess tissue. The same appearance can have different causes, including tooth position, eruption, lip movement, inflammation or bone anatomy, so reshaping tissue alone is not suitable for every patient.
Assessment and suitability
The clinician evaluates gum health, tissue levels, tooth proportions, the bite and the relationship between gum and supporting bone. Measurements and imaging may be needed. Active gum disease should not be confused with a cosmetic contour concern.
Treatment method and scope
The recommended method depends on how much tissue is involved and whether bone or restorative treatment also needs consideration. Ask what tissue will be changed, what will remain, how discomfort is managed and whether the service is available at your preferred office.
Healing, care and warning signs
Follow the treating clinician’s written instructions for cleaning, food and activity. Some tenderness or swelling may occur, but the expected course depends on the procedure. Call the office about worsening pain, persistent bleeding, fever or another concern.
Cosmetic contouring and gum-disease care
Cosmetic reshaping changes appearance; treatment for gum disease addresses infection and the supporting tissues. A procedure can sometimes serve restorative or periodontal goals, but the diagnosis and purpose should be documented clearly before treatment.
Explore your options
Continue exploring cosmetic dentistry
Clear aligners
Read the guide →Teeth whitening
Read the guide →Dental veneers
Read the guide →Veneers vs. crowns
Read the guide →Clear aligner cost
Read the guide →Dental bonding
Read the guide →Review the full proposal
Options, limits and estimated costs
Ask for the diagnosis, recommended option, reasonable alternatives, material or system proposed, treatment sequence, maintenance and an itemized estimate. Benefits and financing approval are not guaranteed.
Insurance and payment information →Keep expectations specific
Photographs and digital previews can support a conversation but do not guarantee an identical result. Confirm the service, clinician, materials and availability for your selected office.
Contact the office →Margate · Lauderdale-by-the-Sea
Start with an evaluation
Margate
100 FL-7, Suite 300Margate, FL 33063Lauderdale-by-the-Sea
236 Commercial BoulevardLauderdale-by-the-Sea, FL 33308Your questions, answered
Can gum contouring fix every “gummy” smile?
No. The cause may involve tissue, bone, tooth position, eruption or lip movement. An examination identifies which approaches are reasonable.
Is gum contouring the same as treating gum disease?
No. Cosmetic contouring and disease treatment have different primary goals, even though both involve gum tissue.
Will the gumline stay the same permanently?
No permanent result can be promised. Healing, inflammation and the underlying cause can affect the contour over time.
Informed decisions
Plan your treatment and care
Restorative dentistry
Compare ways to repair teeth and replace missing teeth.
Explore your options →Dental implant cost factors
Know which stages and components to discuss in your estimate.
Explore your options →Dental implant recovery and maintenance
Prepare for healing, follow-up and long-term maintenance.
Explore your options →Get ready for your visit
Organize your paperwork, questions and next steps.
Independent patient resources
General education does not replace an examination or an individual recommendation.