Cosmetic Dentistry
Smile design, Hollywood smile, and cosmetic dental procedures.
Gum contouring, also known as gingival sculpting or gingivoplasty, is a cosmetic dental procedure designed to reshape the gum line for a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing smile. Patients who display excessive gum tissue when smiling — a condition colloquially known as a "gummy smile" — or those with uneven gum margins can benefit significantly from this precise soft tissue reshaping procedure.
Modern gum contouring is predominantly performed using dental diode lasers or erbium lasers, which offer superior precision compared to traditional scalpel techniques. The laser simultaneously cuts and cauterises the tissue, resulting in minimal bleeding, reduced post-operative swelling, and faster healing. The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia and typically takes one to two hours depending on the extent of reshaping required.
During the procedure, the cosmetic dentist carefully marks the desired new gum line using a surgical marker, ensuring symmetry between corresponding teeth. The laser is then used to precisely remove or reshape excess gum tissue, exposing more of the natural tooth crown. In cases where the gummy smile is caused by excessive bone rather than soft tissue, a crown lengthening procedure may be performed, which involves minor bone recontouring beneath the gum tissue.
Ideal candidates include patients with gummy smiles, asymmetric gum lines, or uneven gum margins that detract from an otherwise healthy smile. Gum contouring is frequently performed as part of a comprehensive smile makeover, complementing veneers or crown restorations by creating an optimal soft tissue framework.
Istanbul's cosmetic dental clinics utilise the latest diode and erbium laser technology for gum contouring, with many practitioners trained at leading European and American institutions. The procedure is often incorporated into Hollywood Smile packages at minimal additional cost, making Istanbul an excellent destination for patients seeking a comprehensive aesthetic transformation at an affordable price point.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is gum contouring painful?
The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, so you will not feel pain during treatment. Post-procedure discomfort is mild and typically managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Most patients report only minor tenderness for 2-3 days.
Does gum tissue grow back after contouring?
In most cases, properly contoured gum tissue does not grow back significantly. However, if the underlying cause of excess gum tissue (such as certain medications or inflammation) is not addressed, some regrowth is possible.
Can gum contouring be done at the same time as veneers?
Yes, gum contouring is frequently performed as a preparatory step before veneer placement. It is typically done at the first visit, allowing the gum tissue to heal while veneers are being fabricated in the laboratory.
Treatment Overview
Duration
1-2 hours
Recovery Time
1-2 weeks
Price Range
£300 - £600
Benefits
- Minimally invasive laser procedure with little bleeding
- Corrects gummy smiles for a more balanced appearance
- Creates symmetrical gum line for improved aesthetics
- Fast healing — most patients recover within a week
- Often combined with veneers for comprehensive smile design
- Immediate visible improvement in smile proportions
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