Gum Contouring in Basingstoke
If you feel that your teeth look too short, uneven, or hidden by excess gum tissue, you’re not imagining it - and you’re not alone. Many people come to us wanting to improve the balance of their smile, not by changing their teeth, but by gently reshaping the gums around them. That’s where gum contouring comes in.
At Hampshire Dental Care, we offer gum contouring as a safe, effective cosmetic treatment to refine your gum line and reveal more of your natural tooth. Whether you’re concerned about a “gummy” smile, asymmetry, or irregular gum levels, we’ll guide you through your options and help you achieve a smile that feels more balanced and confident.
What Is Gum Contouring?
Gum contouring - also called gum reshaping or gingival sculpting - is a cosmetic dental procedure that involves carefully removing or reshaping excess gum tissue to improve the appearance of your smile. It can make teeth appear longer, more even, and better proportioned.
We typically use this treatment to address:
- A “gummy” smile (where too much gum shows above the teeth)
- Uneven or asymmetrical gum lines
- Gums that cover part of the tooth surface and make teeth look smaller
The procedure is performed with precision tools under local anaesthetic to ensure comfort throughout. The result is a more harmonious gum-to-tooth ratio, helping your smile look naturally balanced and healthier.
In many cases, gum contouring is combined with other cosmetic treatments - such as teeth whitening, veneers or composite bonding - as part of a complete smile refresh.
Why Choose Us for Gum Contouring?
We understand that cosmetic dentistry is about more than just looks - it’s about how you feel when you smile. Our team has years of experience in delivering natural, subtle results using gentle techniques that prioritise your comfort and confidence.
At Hampshire Dental Care, we don’t rush into treatment. We begin with a consultation to assess your smile, discuss your concerns, and explain exactly what’s possible. If gum contouring is right for you, we’ll create a custom plan that suits your mouth and your goals - no overcorrection, no artificial results.
We’re known for our calm, friendly approach and attention to detail. Every patient is treated as an individual, and we’re always honest about what will - and won’t - make a meaningful difference.
Benefits of Gum Contouring
Gum contouring is a relatively minor procedure with noticeable cosmetic benefits. Our patients often say they feel more confident smiling, speaking and laughing after treatment. Here’s what you can expect:
Balanced appearance
Create a more even, proportional gum line that enhances the symmetry of your smile.
Improved tooth visibility
Reveal more of the natural tooth structure for a brighter, more open look.
Long-lasting results
Once reshaped, gum tissue doesn’t typically grow back, so results are usually permanent.
Confidence boost
Feel more comfortable in photos, conversations and day-to-day life with a smile you’re proud to show.
Pairs well with other treatments
Ideal for patients also planning whitening, veneers or orthodontic treatment.
We’ll show you before-and-after examples and digital mock-ups where appropriate, so you can see what kind of results are possible before making a decision.
What to Expect from the Procedure
Gum contouring is usually carried out in a single visit under local anaesthetic. You’ll be fully awake but completely comfortable during the process.
Here’s what the typical treatment involves:
1. Initial consultation
We’ll examine your gums and teeth, talk through your goals, and determine if gum contouring is suitable.
2. Treatment planning
If you’re a good candidate, we’ll map out exactly where the contouring will be done to create a natural, even result.
3. Reshaping
Using precision tools, we’ll gently remove excess gum tissue or reshape the gum line as planned.
4. Aftercare advice
Recovery is usually straightforward with mild tenderness or swelling for a few days. We’ll give you clear guidance on how to care for your gums during healing.
Most people return to normal activities the next day, and results can be seen immediately—though the final look becomes clearer as the tissue heals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is gum contouring painful?
No. The area is numbed with local anaesthetic, so you won’t feel anything during the procedure. Afterward, some mild tenderness is normal but manageable with over-the-counter pain relief.
How long is recovery?
Healing usually takes about a week. We recommend eating soft foods for a couple of days and following our aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
Will the gums grow back?
In most cases, no. The reshaped gum tissue stays in its new position, so results are long-lasting.
Can anyone have gum contouring?
We’ll assess this during your consultation. If you have active gum disease or poor oral hygiene, we may recommend treatment beforehand to ensure the best result.
How much gum is removed?
Only a very small amount—just enough to achieve the desired balance. We’re always conservative and precise, focusing on enhancing your smile while keeping it natural.
If you’ve been feeling self-conscious about your gum line or are simply curious about whether gum contouring could help, we’d be happy to talk. Book a consultation with Hampshire Dental Care today and take the first step towards a more confident, balanced smile.
