Gummy Smile
Gresham, OR
The shape and position of the gum line play an important role in both oral health and the appearance of a smile. When gum tissue is uneven or excessive, it can change how teeth look and how well they function. Gingival contouring, sometimes referred to as gum reshaping, is a procedure designed to refine the gum line so that it appears balanced and supports healthy teeth. At Gresham Dental Excellence, we may recommend gingival contouring to restore the natural appearance of the gum line, improve oral hygiene access, or support healing after periodontal treatment. Because every patient's gum structure is unique, the procedure is carefully planned to create a natural and healthy result. Why The Gum Line MattersThe gums serve an important protective role for the teeth and underlying bone. Healthy gum tissue forms a firm seal around each tooth, helping to keep bacteria away from deeper structures within the mouth. When the gum line becomes uneven or unhealthy, both the appearance and health of the smile can be affected. Some patients have gum tissue that extends too far over their teeth. This condition can create what is commonly called a "gummy smile," where the teeth appear short or partially hidden beneath excess gum tissue. While the teeth themselves may be normal in size, the excessive gum coverage can make them look disproportionately small. Gingival contouring allows our dentist to adjust the gum line so it better complements the natural proportions of the teeth. By creating a balanced gum line, the teeth can appear more symmetrical while the gums continue to provide proper protection. Gingival Contouring As Part Of Gum Disease TreatmentGingival contouring is sometimes necessary during treatment for advanced gum disease. Periodontal disease occurs when bacteria accumulate beneath the gum line, causing inflammation and infection in the supporting tissues around the teeth. Before surgical treatment is considered, several non-surgical therapies may be used to control infection and improve gum health. These treatments may include:
Scaling and root planing are often referred to as deep cleaning procedures. During these treatments, plaque and hardened tartar deposits are carefully removed from areas that regular brushing and flossing cannot reach. Once the surfaces of the teeth are cleaned and smoothed, the gum tissue can begin to heal and reattach more securely. However, when gum disease progresses to a more advanced stage, periodontal surgery may be necessary to fully remove infected tissue and bacteria. In these cases, gingival contouring may be performed during the same procedure to reshape the gum line after treatment has been completed. Medical And Cosmetic Reasons For Gingival ContouringWhile gingival contouring is often associated with cosmetic improvements, it can also serve an important medical purpose. The procedure is commonly performed after periodontal pocket reduction surgery, which is used to treat deep pockets that develop between the teeth and gums as gum disease progresses. During pocket reduction surgery, the gum tissue is gently lifted so the underlying areas can be thoroughly cleaned and treated. Once bacteria and infected tissue are removed, the gum tissue is repositioned around the teeth. Because this process can alter the natural contour of the gum line, gingival contouring may be used to refine the shape of the gums and restore a more natural appearance. For patients seeking cosmetic improvements, gingival contouring can help create a more balanced smile by correcting irregularities in the gum line. Some of the cosmetic concerns that may be addressed include:
Although cosmetic concerns do not always present a medical risk, many patients choose gingival contouring to improve their confidence when smiling or speaking. The Gingival Contouring ProcedureGingival contouring is considered a straightforward surgical procedure that is typically completed in a single office visit. Because the treatment focuses on soft tissue, the process is carefully performed to maintain both comfort and precision. Before the procedure begins, a local anesthetic is used to numb the treatment area. This ensures that patients remain comfortable throughout the procedure. If gingival contouring is performed alongside a more complex surgical treatment, additional forms of anesthesia may be recommended. Dr. Cooke may use specialized dental instruments, such as a scalpel or a soft tissue laser, to reshape the gum line. These tools allow for precise removal or adjustment of gum tissue while preserving the surrounding structures. When excess gum tissue is present, the surplus tissue is carefully removed so that more of the tooth surface becomes visible. This can help correct the appearance of a gummy smile and create a more balanced gum line. Recovery After Gingival ContouringMost patients experience a relatively quick recovery following gingival contouring. Mild swelling and tenderness are common during the first few days after the procedure, but these symptoms generally improve as the gums begin to heal. Patients are typically advised to take a few simple precautions while the tissues recover. These may include:
In many cases, the gums heal within about a week. Our team will provide specific aftercare instructions to help ensure the best possible healing and long-term results. Learn More About Gingival ContouringA balanced gum line contributes to both oral health and a confident smile. Whether gingival contouring is recommended to support periodontal treatment or to refine the appearance of the gums, the procedure can help restore harmony between the teeth and surrounding tissue. Patients who would like to learn more about gingival contouring are encouraged to contact Gresham Dental Excellence at (971) 431-7292. Our team can evaluate the condition of your gums and discuss whether this procedure may be beneficial for your oral health and smile. |
 Hours Tues Weds Thur Fri 7am to 4:30pm 7am to 4:30pm 7am to 4:30pm By Appointment only |
