Gum contouring reshapes the gum line with a laser to reveal more of your natural tooth, a single, precise procedure for smiles that show more gum tissue than tooth.
A "gummy smile" describes a smile where the gum tissue covers more of the tooth than average, so the visible teeth look short even if they're a normal size underneath. It's usually caused by excess gum tissue growth, not a problem with the teeth themselves.
Gum contouring uses a soft-tissue laser to reshape the gum line, removing the excess tissue and revealing more of the tooth beneath it. It's a surgical procedure, done under local anesthesia, and the laser's precision means minimal bleeding and a faster recovery than older scalpel methods.
This is genuinely a surgical treatment, not a quick cosmetic touch-up. We only recommend it after confirming the excess gum tissue, not a short tooth or a high lip line, is actually what's driving the look you want to change.
Gum contouring addresses a specific cause of a gummy smile. At your exam we'll confirm that's actually what's going on before recommending surgery.
The most common cause, teeth are a normal length underneath, just partly covered.
Contouring can even out a gum line that dips lower on some teeth than others.
If you find yourself covering your smile in photos or conversation because of your gum line, this is worth discussing.
Contouring first can improve proportions before cosmetic work on the teeth themselves.
If the teeth themselves are worn or short, veneers or bonding, not gum surgery, is the right fix, and we'll say so.
We examine your gum line and tooth proportions, and take photos to map exactly how much tissue is excess versus how much tooth is naturally short.
We mark the new gum line based on healthy tooth proportions and your goals, and confirm with you before any tissue is removed.
Under local anesthesia, we use a soft-tissue laser to remove the excess gum tissue and shape the new gum line. Sedation is available if you'd like it.
Most soreness resolves within a few days, with full healing in one to two weeks. We check the result at a follow-up visit once the tissue has settled.
A gummy smile isn't a health problem, so there's no medical reason you have to treat it. This comparison is about whether the procedure is worth it for your goals, not a health-driven recommendation.
Gum contouring cost depends on how many teeth need reshaping and how much tissue is being removed. Because a gummy smile is a cosmetic concern rather than a health issue, dental insurance typically does not cover this procedure. We offer financing through Lending Club and CareCredit, and Membership Club members receive a discount on cosmetic treatment.
Our clinic is in network with most PPOs and accepts all insurance plans. We'll verify your benefits and file the claim on your behalf.
Spread payment over time with interest-free financing through Lending Club or CareCredit, so cost isn't the reason you delay treatment.
Not insured? Our in-house membership plan simplifies preventative care and saves on treatment, a smart alternative when insurance isn't a fit.
Learn About MembershipOur cosmetic team confirms excess gum tissue is truly the cause before recommending surgery, so you're only treating what's actually driving the look you want to change.
Over a decade of practice in the DC area. Certified Invisalign provider and AAFE-certified in Botox therapeutics for TMJ and facial pain.
Restorative, cosmetic, and complex oral surgery. Invisalign and dental implant certified, with a special focus on patients with dental anxiety.
Compassionate care with a friendly approach. A Fairfax native who combines clinical expertise with genuine warmth that puts patients at ease.
Multi-disciplinary, comprehensive dentistry with a pragmatic approach. Passionate about patient education and staying current with advances in dental care.
Not sure if a gummy smile is really about your gums or your teeth? We can tell you at a quick exam.
Book ConsultationThe area is fully numbed with local anesthesia before we start, so the procedure itself isn't painful. Mild soreness for a few days afterward is normal, similar to a minor gum procedure, and over-the-counter pain relief is usually enough.
Most patients feel back to normal within a few days and are fully healed within one to two weeks. We'll give you specific care instructions, including what to eat and how to keep the area clean while it heals.
Yes, in most cases. Once the excess tissue is removed and the gum line is reshaped, it doesn't grow back over the tooth the way it was before. Some patients with certain gum tissue types can see minor regrowth over many years, which we'd address if it happens.
No. Gum contouring is purely about the visible gum line and doesn't affect your bite, chewing, or the health of the tooth itself.
Yes. It's common to do gum contouring first if you're also planning veneers or a smile design, since it changes the proportions the rest of the plan is built around.
This is exactly what the exam is for. We measure your actual tooth length against your gum coverage and tell you plainly whether contouring, veneers, or a combination is the right fix.
We'll take a close look at your gum line and tooth proportions and tell you honestly whether contouring will get you the result you're picturing.
No pressure. No obligation. Just a clear picture of what's possible.
New patients always welcome. Fill out the form and we'll reach out to schedule your consultation, or call the office nearest you.