It’s time to feel confident with a neat, even smile
It might be that you don’t like your ‘gummy’ smile. Perhaps you’re conscious about your gum recession
If you show too much gum, or not enough, or they’re just a bit uneven, it might be time to consider Gum Contouring
Just a small change to your gums can make a big difference to your smile
Reshaping your smile
Whether you’re showing a little too much gum, have recession or an uneven gumline, we can help

Gummy smile

Uneven Gums

Gum Recession
Gum contouring at No.4 Dental Studio, Ripon
A smile isn’t just about the teeth.
Your gums play an important part in how your smile looks, and we should consider the importance of gum shape when thinking about a new smile.
So, if your gumline doesn’t sit quite right, then gum contouring might be the answer.
Gum contouring is really simple (when it’s done right)
Good gum contouring is all about the planning
At No.4, you’ll get access to the latest in digital planning and design technology, which means you can see just how your smile will look before we begin.
We’ll use this to create a template, which means we can accurately and precisely replicate your new smile, just as you’ve seen on screen.
Gum contouring can make a real difference
We often see a gummy smile with short teeth,
If this sounds like you, gum contouring may really help. This is a prime example of where a small change can make a real improvement.


*photo is a simulation, not real-life
Gum contouring is usually part of a wider plan
It helps us enhance your smile, when used alongside other treatment options.
Most commonly, people come to us looking for a new smile. Gums aren’t always top of their list of priorities.
But gum contouring used alongside other treatments such as veneers, composite bonding, teeth whitening or dental implants can take a great smile, and make it amazing
Gum contouring for a ‘gummy smile’

Step 1: Consultation
Come and meet us
Come to see how we can help, tell us what you’d like to achieve, and we can talk through your options.

Step 2: Design
Digital Design and Planning
Choose a gum level, contour and tooth shape and that perfectly fits your smile

*photo is a simulation, not real-life
Step 3: Contouring
Precise, guided gum shaping
From your agreed design, we produce a 3D printed guide so that what you see on screen is replicated in real life
Gum contouring for uneven gums
Step 1: Consultation
Come and meet us
Come to see how we can help, tell us what you’d like to achieve, and we can talk through your options.

Step 2: Design
Digital Design and Planning
See how an even gumline could enhance your smile

Step 3: Contouring
Precise, guided gum shaping
From your agreed design, we produce a 3D printed guide so that what you see on screen is replicated in real life

*photo is a simulation, not real-life
Coverage of gum recession

Gum recession is very common
Recession can be unsightly, especially if it’s visible in your smile.
Compared to gum contouring, gum coverage can be trickier, especially if the recession has happened as a result of gum disease.
But, if the area is generally in good health, gum coverage can work well. We can tell you if it’s likely to be a good option from a quick consultation and X-ray.
Gum Contouring FAQs
I’m happy with my teeth. Can I have just gum contouring?
This may be possible.
It depends on a few things, such as whether your tooth enamel extends past the gumline, or if you have existing crowns or veneers on your teeth.
When you come for your consultation, we can let you know for sure either way
How does it work alongside other treatments?
We commonly use gum contouring alongside other treatments as part of a wider plan
Most commonly, we may use veneers, crowns or composite bonding to restore teeth to their ideal shape, size and proportions. This would all be planned out in advance so you’d know just what to expect before you begin
Is gum contouring safe?
Yes, it’s totally safe when correctly planned.
At No.4, we use the latest technology in digital planning, with CBCT scans and 3D printed templates, so your end result will be just as planned.
Are the results of gum contouring permanent?
It’s designed to be a long-term treatment. So long as it’s well-planned, gums should not regrow back over the teeth.
Because we plan your treatment in detail, we know whether your gums may be more prone to this, and if we need to do anything to help keep your new gumline stable.
Will I need stitches?
Perhaps, it depends.
For most simple gum contouring treatments, stitches aren’t needed, and your gums will heal quickly without trouble. Other times, you may have a few, unobtrusive stitches for a short while afterwards
Is gum contouring painful?
You’ll be surprised how comfortable it is.
We’ll give you plenty of anaesthetic before starting to keep you nice and comfortable. Afterwards, you’d naturally expect some discomfort for a few days, but this tends to settle quickly and you’ll back to your normal activities in no time

