Gum contouring is a relatively new procedure that allows the reshaping of someone’s gum with the purpose of showing less of it when they smile. Gummy smiles affect a lot of people, while many have no problems, other may want it to be altered, it is an individual decision for each person and you should spend time thinking it through if you are considering it.

With a local anaesthetic, your dentist will make an incision above your gum line. Your gum line can then be moved further down (or up in the case of the bottom) the teeth. Above the gum line the root of your teeth are now exposed. Removing a piece of the lining of your mouth your dentist is able to transplant that piece of soft tissue into this new gap. Since the procedure is done very quickly all the tissue remains alive and will, with time, reconnect into a single piece of tissue as the blood vessels develop. After a recovery period your gums will look completely natural, the transplanted piece of soft tissue will be indistinguishable from the rest of your gums.

When recovering it is important to brush the gum line very gently, as to not slow the healing process. Smoking should be forgone during the recovery period due to the highly increased risk of infection. For a few weeks there may be some mild inflammation and tenderness of the gums, your dentist may prescribe you medication if they deem it necessary. Your Central Leeds dental practice will be able to answer all your questions regarding gum contouring and help you decide with the process if right for you.