Hi, prior to gum contouring, your dentist will analyse your smile, and see how much gum contouring can improve the problem of a gummy smile.
After which, the dimension of the teeth will be measured to decide how gum should be contoured.
Gum contouring is normally a 1-2 hours procedure, unless bone needs to be removed, which may then take up to 3-4 hours. It is usually done under local anaesthetic, even though it can done under sedation.
The procedure can be done in the traditional way with a scalpel or with a dental laser. During the procedure, you shouldn't feel anything as the gum is numb. Most of the time there will be no suture, unless bone is removed.
If the procedure is done with a laser machine, patients can technically return to work on the same day. After the procedure, they will be advised to avoid hard and rough food like chips, sesame seeds, chilli seeds etc.
I once had a patient who went for a swim a day after the laser gum contouring, even though I wouldn't encourage it!
Hope that helps, and all the best to your gum contouring journey!
Kind regards,
Dr Kelvin Chua
