Competitive Gum Contouring in Finchley for a Balanced Smile

Gum contouring works well if you dislike how your gums look. You are a good candidate if you have a gummy smile, where excess gum makes teeth look short. It also helps fix an uneven gum line that makes teeth look different sizes. Some patients need contouring for restoration, such as exposing more of a tooth surface so a crown or veneer fits securely. If the shape or amount of gum tissue affects your smile or a planned restoration, this treatment is worth considering.

The process is efficient and straightforward. First, you have a 45 minute consultation at our Finchley practice where we discuss goals and assess gum health. On treatment day, we apply local anaesthetic to numb the area so you feel no pain. The procedure typically takes 60-90 minutes. We remove excess gum tissue and sculpt a new gum line using a dental laser or a fine instrument. A laser seals tissue as it works, reducing bleeding and speeding healing. Finally, we give aftercare instructions. Results are visible immediately.

Recovery is usually quick. In the first 24 to 48 hours you may have mild tenderness and swelling, manageable with over the counter painkillers such as ibuprofen. Stick to soft foods like yoghurt, soup, and pasta for a few days to avoid irritating the area. Rinse gently with warm saltwater to keep the area clean. Most people return to normal activities the next day. Brush teeth gently, avoiding the gum line for the first week. Gums typically heal fully within 7 to 14 days. A real world example: A patient from Muswell Hill had contouring on upper front teeth. She felt mild discomfort for two days, managed with paracetamol, and was back at work the next day with a confident smile. Red flags: Call during office hours (Mon/Wed/Fri 9-5, Tue/Thu 11-7). Contact us if you have excessive bleeding that won't stop, severe or worsening pain after day 3, or signs of infection like fever or pus. For out-of-hours emergencies, visit A&E or call 111.

We offer competitive private pricing for gum contouring. The cost typically ranges from £800 to £1,500 for shaping the upper front four to six teeth, which is the most common request. The final price depends on complexity and number of teeth involved. This includes the consultation, the procedure, local anaesthetic, and all follow-up checks. There are no hidden fees. Gum contouring is usually cosmetic, so it is not covered by dental insurance. However, we accept plans from Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna for other treatments. We provide a fully detailed and transparent quote at your initial consultation.

While gum contouring works well, other treatments may suit certain cases. If a gummy smile comes from an overactive upper lip muscle, Botox injections offer a less invasive option to relax the lip and reduce gum visibility, though it is temporary. If short-looking teeth stem from orthodontic issues, Invisalign or similar devices may move teeth into a better position first. For some complex cases, crown lengthening may be needed, which removes a small amount of bone along with gum tissue. We'll discuss all suitable options during your assessment.

To choose what fits you best, ask the right questions whether you meet with us or another Finchley practice. Be sure to ask: What technology do you use for the procedure (laser or scalpel) and why? Can I see before and after photos of previous patients? What are the specific risks in my case? Will my gums grow back over time? Is the quoted price all inclusive or are there separate fees for consultations and follow-ups? How much experience do you have with this procedure? What happens if I am not happy with the result?