Gum Contouring for North Finchley Patients

Gum contouring helps with cosmetic and functional concerns. If you have a gummy smile, where gums show too much when you smile, you’re likely a good candidate. It also helps when the gum line is uneven, making some teeth look shorter. In some cases this is called crown lengthening to expose more of a tooth surface, which can be needed to fit a crown or veneer when a tooth is broken near the gum line. At your consultation, we’ll review your gum health and smile to decide if this treatment fits you.

The process is simple and focused on comfort. First, you’ll have a 30 minute consultation to discuss goals and examine your gums. At the treatment visit we numb the area with local anaesthetic so you won’t feel pain. The procedure usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. Dr. Reddy will remove small amounts of gum tissue and shape a neater gum line using specialized tools. You’ll see the result right away. We use techniques to minimise bleeding and support a quick, comfortable recovery.

A 28 year old marketing executive from North Finchley felt gums dominated her smile. The procedure lasted about 45 minutes under local anaesthetic. She had mild tenderness for two days, managed with standard painkillers. By following a soft diet for three days, her gums healed within a week, revealing a smile she could show in client meetings. This outcome is common for cosmetic gum contouring patients.

A patient from Barnet needed a new crown on a molar near the gum line. There wasn’t enough tooth visible to seat the crown. We did a functional gum contouring to lower the gum around that tooth. After two weeks of healing we took a precise impression and fitted a crown that was secure and easy to clean, reducing future gum problems.

For the first 24 to 48 hours expect mild tenderness and swelling. This is managed with over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen. Eat soft, cool foods such as yoghurt, smoothies, and soup for the first few days and avoid spicy or crunchy items. Rinse gently with warm salt water to keep the area clean. Most patients can return to normal activities the next day. Complete healing usually takes 7 to 10 days. Red flags during office hours Mon/Wed/Fri 9 to 5 and Tue/Thu 11 to 7: persistent heavy bleeding, increasing pain after day 3, or signs of infection like pus or a foul taste.

The cost depends on how much gum is treated, whether it is for a single tooth or the full smile. Because it is personalised, we provide a clear quote after your initial visit. There are no hidden fees. The practice is private, so this treatment is not available on the NHS. We accept private plans such as Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Please bring your insurance details to your appointment and we can explain coverage for cosmetic or restorative work.

Other options may suit the cause. If a hyperactive upper lip lifts too high, small Botox injections can lower the lip line for about 3 to 4 months. If teeth have not fully erupted, orthodontic treatment with braces or Invisalign can move teeth to improve the gum line. We discuss all sensible options during your assessment to help you choose the best treatment for your needs.

To help you decide with confidence, here are some questions to ask any dentist you see, whether with us or elsewhere: 1) What technique will you use and why, laser or scalpel? 2) How much gum tissue will you remove? 3) Can I see before and after photos of previous patients? 4) What are the chances gum tissue will grow back? 5) Is my gummy smile caused by gums, lip, or jaw position? 6) Will the procedure affect the health of teeth or gums long term?