Your smile is about more than your teeth. For many people, an uneven or overly prominent gum line quietly steals the spotlight, making teeth look short, mismatched, or out of proportion, even when those teeth are in perfect condition. Gum contouring is a cosmetic dental procedure designed to reshape and redefine your gum line, revealing more of your natural tooth structure and bringing your smile into better balance.
At Precision Cosmetic & Family Dentistry in New Smyrna Beach, FL, Dr. James Kortbus takes a thoughtful, personalized approach to every cosmetic procedure. Whether your gum line has always sat a little too high or uneven gum tissue is affecting the overall look of your smile, the team at Precision Cosmetic & Family Dentistry can help you explore whether gum contouring is the right step. Our cosmetic dentistry services span a wide range of treatments designed to help every patient feel confident in their smile.
Request an AppointmentWhat Is Gum Contouring and How Does It Work?
Gum contouring, sometimes called gum reshaping or crown lengthening, is a procedure that removes or sculpts excess gum tissue to create a more symmetrical, proportional smile. It’s one of the most impactful cosmetic procedures available, and for many patients, it’s the missing piece that ties the rest of their smile together.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Gum contouring tends to be a great fit for patients dealing with a few specific concerns. Here are some of the most common reasons people pursue this treatment:
- Gummy smile: More gum tissue shows when smiling than feels comfortable or proportional.
- Uneven gum line: One side sits noticeably higher or lower than the other.
- Short-looking teeth: Teeth appear small or stubby because excess gum covers part of the crown.
- Asymmetry after previous dental work: Gum tissue didn’t settle evenly after restorations.
Each of these situations is different, and a proper evaluation is always the first step. Dr. Kortbus takes the time to understand each patient’s unique anatomy and goals before recommending a course of treatment.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Gum contouring is typically performed in a single appointment using a soft tissue laser or a fine surgical instrument, depending on the extent of reshaping needed. Local anesthesia is used to keep the area comfortable, and most patients are surprised by how manageable the experience is. The procedure itself often takes less than an hour, though treatment time varies based on how many teeth are involved and the degree of reshaping required. Recovery is generally mild, with most patients returning to normal routines within a few days.
The Connection Between Gum Aesthetics and Smile Design
The gum line plays a bigger role in smile aesthetics than most people realize. Gum contouring under local anesthesia can correct issues such as gummy smiles and uneven gum lines, with lasers offering added precision, less bleeding, and quicker healing compared to traditional methods. When the gum line frames the teeth in a balanced way, the entire smile looks more refined and intentional.
For patients who are also exploring restorations like veneers or crowns, gum contouring is sometimes performed first to establish the right foundation. Correcting the gum line before placing restorative dental work allows the final result to look more natural and cohesive. In this way, gum contouring works alongside other treatments rather than standing alone.
Why Patients in New Smyrna Beach Choose Precision Cosmetic & Family Dentistry
Choosing the right dentist for a cosmetic procedure matters. Dr. Kortbus brings a depth of knowledge to cosmetic care that goes beyond aesthetics, understanding how each change to a smile’s appearance relates to the health and function of the surrounding structures. Patients across Volusia County travel to the New Smyrna Beach practice because they want that level of attention.
We approach every case with a level of care that reflects our commitment to long-term relationships with patients. Nothing is rushed. There’s no pressure. From the initial consultation through recovery, patients are kept informed and comfortable every step of the way. That kind of environment makes a real difference, especially when someone is considering a cosmetic procedure for the first time.
Making Gum Contouring Accessible for Every Patient
One of the more common questions patients have is about cost. Gum contouring is considered a cosmetic procedure, which means it’s typically not covered by dental insurance. But that doesn’t mean it’s out of reach. At Precision Cosmetic & Family Dentistry, we offer flexible financing options through CareCredit and Cherry, giving patients the ability to spread out the cost over time.
We also offer an in-house membership plan for $299 per year, which includes exams, x-rays, and cleanings, along with 20% off additional treatments. Options like these make it easier to move forward with the care you want without putting it off.
Start Your Smile Transformation at Precision Cosmetic & Family Dentistry
When gum tissue is standing between you and the smile you’ve always wanted, gum contouring can be a surprisingly simple solution. At Precision Cosmetic & Family Dentistry, Dr. Kortbus combines clinical skill with a genuine commitment to every patient’s comfort and satisfaction. Whether gum reshaping is the only change you need or one part of a broader smile makeover, our team will help you build a treatment plan that fits your goals and your life.
At Precision Cosmetic & Family Dentistry, we welcome patients from New Smyrna Beach and throughout the greater Volusia County area. Flexible financing through CareCredit and Cherry means cost doesn’t have to be a barrier to getting the smile you deserve. If you’re ready to take the first step, contact the office today to schedule your consultation.