What Is Gum Contouring and Reshaping Weatherford, TX
People who are embarrassed about their smile may want to consider gum contouring to improve the symmetry and balance of their smile. The term is synonymous with gum reshaping, and the terms can be used interchangeably. Gum contouring, or reshaping, is a cosmetic procedure that evens out the gum line and may also offer medical benefits.
Gum reshaping is available at Millar Family Dentistry in Weatherford and the surrounding area. People who are looking for a simple and effective way of improving their smile may want to consider gum contouring. We can discuss the procedure and help determine if it is a good choice. Call us at (817) 885-5214 to schedule an appointment.
What Gum Reshaping Is
Also known as gum reshaping, gum contouring involves cutting away excess oral tissue or replacing receding gums. It is primarily used as a cosmetic procedure to improve the aesthetic appearance of a patient's smile. It is also used to reduce the risk of teeth falling out by securing them when receding gums provide little stability.
According to WebMD, gum reshaping is necessary for several periodontal procedures such as pocket reduction and crown lengthening. In other cases, this procedure can help to restore the health of a patient's gums, as well. Thanks to offering both cosmetic and medical benefits, this is a beneficial procedure for patients who need multiple solutions to restore their smile.
“Also known as gum reshaping, gum contouring involves cutting away excess oral tissue or replacing receding gums.”
Benefits of a Gum Contouring Procedure
Gum contouring offers both medical and cosmetic benefits. In general, reshaping the gum line improves one's smile and helps prevent future dental issues. The specific benefits associated with this procedure include:
- Evens the gum line: When the gum line is uneven, it can actually cause the teeth to look crooked. If the teeth do not look straight but the dentist says braces are not needed, contouring may be the answer. It can balance and even up the smile.
- Reduces the gum line: When there is extra gum tissue, it can result in a gummy smile. It can also dull the color of the teeth. When this excess tissue is removed, one of the results is whiter-looking teeth, which greatly brightens the smile.
- Fights tooth decay: One of the biggest benefits of reshaping the gum line is that it helps fight decay in the mouth. Excess gum tissue can trap food, which makes it harder to clean. This results in bacteria leading to tooth decay.
“One of the biggest benefits of reshaping the gum line is it helps fight decay in the mouth.”
How the Gum Contouring Process Works
First, a dentist will examine the patient to determine if gum reshaping is necessary for medical reasons or strictly a cosmetic procedure. If it is medically necessary, the dentist must first treat the underlying cause of the issue. Then, the dentist can use a scalpel or laser to cut away overgrown tissue. If the patient has a receding gum line, the dentist will graft part of the existing gums onto the gum line.
For cosmetic procedures, the dentist will use a pen to mark the desired gum line before beginning the surgery. During the consultation, we can review all possible treatment options with the patient to determine which option is best to meet their needs.
“If it is medically necessary, the dentist must first treat the underlying cause of the issue.”
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: What Is Gum Contouring and Reshaping in Weatherford, TX
The Recovery Process for Gum Reshaping
Though gum reshaping requires little downtime, it may take days or weeks for patients to heal completely. However, recovery time depends on the extent of the surgery. Patients may have to limit their activities for one or two days, depending on how they feel and any tenderness they have. We will provide specific post-surgery dietary instructions to the patients.
In most cases, patients will usually have a follow-up appointment anywhere from a few days to a week after the procedure to monitor healing. This is also a chance for the patient to bring up any questions or concerns they have about maintaining their oral health and new smile.
“Though gum reshaping requires little downtime, it may take days or weeks for patients to heal completely.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What are the benefits of getting a gum contouring procedure?
Q. How is the gum contouring procedure performed?
Q. How long does it take to recover from gum surgery?
People Also Ask
Q. What are the symptoms of gum recession?
Q. Am I at high risk for developing oral cancer?
Q. What are the signs of gum disease?
Q. How can I cope with dental anxiety or phobia?
Q. What are the keys to understanding root scaling and planing?
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is gum reshaping comfortable?
A. Most patients feel no pain during the reshaping procedure because most dentists use a local anesthetic to numb their mouths. However, many patients experience minor discomfort for several days after the operation. Over-the-counter medications such as Aleve®, Motrin®, Advil®, and Tylenol® should relieve any soreness.
Q. Does insurance cover the cost of gum reshaping?
A. Patients should contact their insurance providers to determine the cost of this procedure. Not all insurance companies will cover it if it is only for cosmetic purposes. Some plans may cover the cost only if the treatment is medically necessary.
Q. Are there any risks with gum reshaping?
A. There are few risks associated with gum contouring. Some patients may develop infections that can easily be cured with antibiotics. Others may have an allergic reaction to the anesthesia, but this is extremely rare.
Q. Who is a candidate for gum reshaping?
A. Anyone unsatisfied with the appearance of their gum line is a candidate for this procedure. The American Academy of Periodontology states that this treatment can be particularly beneficial for patients whose gum lines have shifted due to tooth loss. Because this procedure also has medical benefits, it is an effective solution for patients with periodontal disease.
Q. How is gum contouring performed?
A. Dentists use a pen to mark the desired gumline. Next, they use either a scalpel or a laser to remove excess tissue. Then, grafted gums are stitched together so the healing process can begin.
Scan here to view this page, What Is Gum Contouring and Reshaping, on mobile
Gum Disease Terminology
Learn More About Gum Contouring
If you are wondering if you are a good candidate for gum reshaping, we can help. We will evaluate your gums and teeth, discuss your personal goals, and go over the most effective options. For additional questions about gum contouring, give our office a call at 817-885-5214.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2025
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2025
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2025
About our business and website security
- Millar Family Dentistry was established in 2014.
- We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa
- We serve patients from the following counties: Parker and Palo Pinto
- We serve patients from the following cities: Weatherford, Hudson Oaks, Willow Park, Brock, Dennis, Lipan, Aledo, Mineral Wells, Millsap, Poolville and Springtown
- National Provider Identifier Database (1124313291). View NPI Registry Information
- Norton Safe Web. View Details
- Trend Micro Site Safety Center. View Details
Scan here to open directions to Millar Family Dentistry on mobile
Back to top of What Is Gum Contouring and Reshaping
Related Posts
Can My Gums Recede After Braces
When it comes to oral health, the condition of the gums can be key. Proper brushing, flossing and the prevention of gingivitis can support good gum health; however, when individuals suffer from crooked teeth, an underbite or an overbite and choose to get braces, this may cause problems with the gingiva. Dental patients who want…
Scaling And Root Planing For Gum Disease
Healthy oral habits can prevent issues that may lead to infections such as gum disease. This problem, also known as gingivitis, can be common in both children and adults; however, if it is left untreated, it may worsen and cause serious discomfort or cause secondary infections within the body. Oral treatments such as scaling and…
What Can A General Dentist In Weatherford Do For Me?
The goal of a general dentist is to keep your teeth healthy for a lifetime. General dentists offer an array of services, from filling cavities to teaching you and your kids the proper tooth brushing technique. Get your teeth healthy by making an appointment today.A healthy mouth starts with learning how to maintain oral health…
What To Expect At Your Next Oral Cancer Screening
While examining the inside of the mouth is already a typical part of a regular dental check-up, for many people it is also worth scheduling an appointment for an oral cancer screening. The American Cancer Society predicts that more than 53,000 people will be diagnosed with oropharyngeal or oral cavity cancer in 2020, and together…
Explore additional topics covered on our website:
Call Us Today
Scan here to call Millar Family Dentistry on mobile