Gum Contouring

Gum contouring (sometimes called a gum lift, gingival contouring, or crown lengthening) is a cosmetic procedure that reshapes the gum line to create a more balanced, attractive smile. At Nova Dental Care of Chantilly, we use modern techniques including dental lasers to remove or reshape excess gum tissue with precision and minimal discomfort. Patients with a gummy smile, uneven gum line, or short-looking teeth often benefit dramatically from gum contouring, and the results are visible immediately.

Many patients don't realize how much their gum line affects the overall look of their smile. When too much gum tissue shows above the teeth, the smile can look gummy and the teeth can appear small. When the gum line is uneven, individual teeth can look asymmetrical even when they're actually well-aligned. Gum contouring addresses both issues by precisely shaping the gum tissue to expose more of each tooth and create a harmonious gum line across the smile.

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and most patients describe it as comfortable, similar to a routine cleaning. Laser contouring offers the additional benefit of cauterizing the tissue as it cuts, which means less bleeding, faster healing, and minimal post-operative discomfort. Most patients return to normal activities the same day. Gum contouring is often combined with other cosmetic procedures like veneers, bonding, or whitening as part of a comprehensive smile makeover, but it can also stand alone as a quick, transformative procedure.