Gum contouring — also called gingival contouring, gum reshaping, or gingivoplasty — is a cosmetic dental procedure that adjusts the shape or height of your gumline to enhance the appearance of your smile. A dentist or periodontist may remove excess gum tissue that creates a “gummy smile,” making the teeth appear longer and more proportionate, or rebuild gum tissue that has receded and is exposing too much of the tooth.

The procedure is typically performed using advanced dental laser tools for greater precision and reduced bleeding, and local anesthesia is used to keep you comfortable throughout the treatment.