Gum Contouring
in New York City & Manhattan, NY

What is Gum Contouring and How Can My Dentist Help?

Your smile is one of the first things people see and it’s important you feel confident about your smile and the appearance of your teeth. Excess gum tissue creates a “gummy smile” and can make your teeth look small or crooked if the gum line is not straight. Gum contouring will straighten the gum line and remove excess gum tissue to show off a brighter, symmetrical smile.

Gum contouring is sometimes performed with a scalpel to cut away excess tissue, but a laser can also be used to minimize bleeding, risk of infection, and recovery time. Dr. Inna Chern will discuss your options for gum contouring to develop the best treatment plan that you are comfortable having.

Dr. Chern was friendly, professional, and efficient. She spent a lot of time with me and my teeth and took time to answer my questions thoughtfully. What a wonderful trip to the dentist!

-Jason K

What are the Benefits of Gum Contouring?

Gum contouring is performed for cosmetic reasons and health benefits. Excess gum tissue can make it easy for food particles to get trapped beneath the gums and this can cause tooth decay or gum irritation. Gingivitis is a common oral disease caused by inflamed and irritated gums. Aesthetically, large gums can hide your teeth so gum contouring will improve the appearance of your smile and create a more symmetrical appearance for your gum line and teeth.

Am I a Candidate for Gum Contouring?

If you frequently suffer from gum or periodontal disease or if you feel you have a gummy smile, you may be a candidate for gum contouring. The decision to have gum contouring treatment is ultimately up to you and most people are a candidate for this procedure.

Meet With Dr. Chern &
Her Manhattan Team

To learn more about _____ in Manhattan and your treatment options, contact our office for an appointment by calling or filling out our online form. Dr. Inna Chern and her team will personally work with you to plan your best treatment options and restore the function and beauty of your smile.

The Gum Contouring Treatment Procedure

Before your procedure, Dr. Chern will discuss your cosmetic goals to create customized results that match your desired look. During the procedure, a local anesthetic will be injected into the gum line to minimize any discomfort you might feel during the procedure. A laser or scalpel will be used to carefully remove excess gum tissue and reshape your gum line. The entire procedure takes about 1-2 hours.

Caring for Your Teeth After Gum Contouring

After gum contouring, your gums will be sore or swollen for up to one week. Here are a few ways you can care for your teeth and help your gums heal quickly:

  • Avoid spicy food
  • Avoid food with seeds
  • Stick to a soft diet and drink plenty of water
  • Be careful while brushing and flossing
  • Take over-the-counter pain relievers to relieve discomfort
  • Apply ice packs for 15 minutes at a time
  • See your dentist for a follow-up

At what age do gums start to recede?

Gums can recede at any age if excess force and bacteria are present.

Can braces fix an uneven gum line?

Braces can fix uneven gum lines for some people if the cause of the unevenness is the teeth.

Can Cosmetic Dentistry fix receding gums?

If the source of receding gums is poor fitting cosmetic dentistry then replacing it can help but not reverse the process.

Can surgery fix receding gums?

Grafting procedures can fix recession to areas with good blood flow.

Can veneers fix receding gums?

Veneers can cover exposed tooth structure due to recession but it can give the tooth an unnaturally long appearance.

Do gums grow back after gum contouring?

It is possible for some gum tissue to grow back after non-surgical grafting. When this occurs, more extensive surgery is required.

Do gums grow back if cut?

Gum tissue can grow back, depending on the blood supply to the affected area.

How can I fix my gum line?

There are many non-invasive and surgical ways to alter your gemlike. It is best to discuss your concerns with your dentist or periodontist.

How can I get thicker gums?

Grafting procedures can improve the thickness of thin gum tissues in areas of the mouth.

How do you hide gum recession?

You can hide gum recession by placing gum grafts to the affected areas.

How is gum contouring done?

Gum contouring can be done with a laser or through surgical techniques.

How much gum recession is normal?

No amount of gum recession is normal. Recession is an indicator of periodontal disease.

Is gum contouring painful?

Gum contouring can be mild uncomfortable but is done under local anesthesia so a patient doesnt feel the procedure.

Is there an alternative to gum grafting?

There are no alternatives to gum grafting after the tissue has been lost due to recession.

What does a periodontist do for receding gums?

The periodontist can graft the missing tissue from several sources including patients tissue, synthetic grafts and cadaver grafts.

Why are my gums covering my teeth?

Gum tissue covers the cementum of teeth which is much more porous, sensitive and cavity prone.

How long will gum contouring results last?

For many patients, the results of the gum contouring procedure are permanent.

How long does gum contouring take?

The procedure usually takes one or two hours, depending on the amount of gum that needs to be contoured.

How do you care for your teeth and gums after gum contouring?

After the procedure, youll want to avoid spicy foods and foods with seeds, drink plenty of water, be careful with brushing and flossing, and apply ice packs to the area 15 minutes at a time.

What is gum contouring, and why might I need it?

Gum contouring is a cosmetic dental procedure that reshapes the gum line to improve the appearance of your smile. It’s often done to correct a "gummy" smile or to even out uneven gum lines.

How long does the gum contouring procedure take?

The gum contouring procedure typically takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the extent of the work needed. The duration may vary based on the number of teeth being treated.

What can I expect during the recovery period after gum contouring?

Recovery from gum contouring is generally quick, with most discomfort subsiding within a few days. Soft foods and gentle oral hygiene are recommended during the initial recovery period.

Are there any risks or side effects associated with gum contouring?

Risks and side effects of gum contouring are minimal but can include minor swelling, bleeding, or infection. Following your dentist's aftercare instructions can help minimize these risks.

Can gum contouring be combined with other dental procedures?

Yes, gum contouring is often combined with other dental procedures, such as veneers, crowns, or teeth whitening, to enhance overall smile aesthetics.

Will my insurance cover the cost of gum contouring?

Gum contouring is generally considered a cosmetic procedure, so it's often not covered by insurance. However, if it’s medically necessary, some insurance plans may offer partial coverage.

How long do the results of gum contouring last?

The results of gum contouring are typically permanent, as the excess gum tissue does not grow back. Maintaining good oral hygiene can help ensure long-lasting results.

What should I do to prepare for a gum contouring procedure?

To prepare for gum contouring, follow your dentist's instructions, which may include avoiding certain foods or medications before the procedure. Ensure you have soft foods available for the recovery period, and plan for someone to drive you home if sedation is used.

What Makes Our Office the Right Fit for Your Dental Needs?

Personalized Care

We never take a one-size-fits-all approach to your oral health. Dr. Chern will evaluate your teeth and gums, working closely with our team to create a custom solution.

Comfortable Office

Our bright and modern Midtown East Manhattan office was designed with you in mind. Enjoy a calming atmosphere and comfortable amenities to help you feel at ease.

Health-First Approach

New York General Dentistry uses modern techniques and equipment to ensure your treatment is a success.

Let’s Brighten Your Smile!

New York General Dentistry is always welcoming new patients to our Midtown East dentist office.

Feel free to send a text to (929) 244-8140 or call (212) 838-0842

Our New York City Office

Midtown East Manhattan

212.838.0842

133 East 58th St., ste 409
New York, NY 10022
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Hours:
Monday 8am – 7pm
Tuesday 8am – 5pm
Wednesday 8am – 5pm
Thursday 8am – 7pm
Friday 8am – 5pm

Sundays – Available by request for special cases and dental emergencies