What is Gingival Contouring?

What is Gingival Contouring?
  1. How is Gingival Contouring Performed?
  2. Who needs Gingival Contouring?

Gingival contouring is a procedure for reshaping the gum tissue in order to improve the appearance of the person’s smile. However, at times, gingival contouring becomes essential due to oral conditions (such as periodontitis or other gum diseases), which can cause the gum tissue to become inflamed. Not reshaping the gums might then lead to complications which may even result in tooth loss. Therefore, the procedure holds value even beyond its aesthetic aspects.

How is Gingival Contouring Performed?


In its simplest definition, gingival contouring is the process of removing excess gum tissue covering the teeth. The methods of extraction vary greatly, with recent technological advances permitting the removal of the gum tissue with the help of lasers. Other than that, there are special tools for this procedure, too. The process in itself is extremely simple, and you will not require several visits to complete the procedure. Indeed, it can be completed in a single visit. Post the extraction of the tissue, most patients require a week or so to heal naturally.

Who needs Gingival Contouring?


Gingival contouring is mostly requested by people who naturally have excessive gum tissue which leads to them having an uncomfortable and gummy smile. The intent behind this is generally for receiving the aesthetic benefits of the surgery. In other cases, some patients may have an uneven gum line, wherein one of their teeth appears to be “longer” than the other. Gingival contouring helps solve these and other similar cosmetic issues. Excessive tissue may also act as a health hazard, as they may try more food particles than average tissues, putting the person at risk for several gum diseases.

Gingival contouring has several health and aesthetic benefits. If you would like to undergo the procedure or learn more about it, please feel free to contact our office to schedule an appointment with us today!

Meet Our Doctors

Dr. Melody Schiffer

Dr. Melody Schiffer was born and raised in Westchester, NY, and graduated from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor before continuing her education at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. She completed her periodontics and implant dentistry residency at New York University College of Dentistry and is a diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology. Dr. Schiffer is an active member of several dental associations and frequently lectures nationwide. She lives in Suwanee with her husband and two daughters and enjoys community services, traveling, exercising, following Michigan football, and spending time with her family.

Dr. Melody Schiffer

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Dr. Nisha Kancherla

Dr. Nisha Kancherla was born and raised in Glen Dale, WV. She earned her dental degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine and completed her residency in periodontics at the University of Illinois Chicago College of Dentistry. Dr. Kancherla also earned a master’s degree in oral science for her research in genetics and stem cell research, which she published in Molecular Cancer Research. She is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and has been in practice for eight years.

Dr. Nisha Kancherla

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