Medically reviewed by Dr. Aditi Jain, BDS, MDS · Periodontist & Oral Implantologist · with 15 years of experience·Last reviewed 11 June 2026
Gum contouring is a cosmetic procedure that gently reshapes the gum line so a gummy or uneven smile looks more even and balanced. At Surekha Dental Clinic in Mulund West, Mumbai, gum contouring (also called gum reshaping) is carried out under local anaesthetic, so you should feel little to no pain. It suits people who feel their gums show too much when they smile, or whose gum line sits at different heights across the front teeth, making some teeth look shorter than others. Reshaping can often be completed in a single sitting, and the aim is a softer, more even smile that still looks like you, not a dramatic change. If a gummy or uneven smile has ever made you self-conscious, our friendly team is happy to talk you through what gum contouring can and cannot do for you.
Gum contouring is an elective cosmetic treatment, so it is a personal choice rather than something you need for your health. A short examination tells us whether it would work well for you, and it tends to suit you if the points below sound familiar.
You feel that too much gum shows above your teeth when you smile (a gummy smile)
Your gum line sits at different heights, so some teeth look shorter or uneven
Your gums and teeth are healthy, with no active gum infection or bleeding to treat first
You would like a subtle, natural-looking change rather than a dramatic makeover
You do not smoke heavily, as this can slow how the gum heals afterwards
You understand that results vary from person to person and depend on your gum and bone shape
Step by step
Here is exactly what happens during your gum contouring, step by step.
1Step 1 of 2
How does the dentist mark the new gum line and numb the gum?
Your gum contouring starts with planning exactly where the new gum line should sit, so the result looks even and natural. The dentist studies how your gums frame each tooth when you smile, then marks the desired new gum line along the teeth as a precise guide to follow. Careful marking is what keeps the change balanced from one tooth to the next. Once you are happy with the plan, a small amount of local anaesthetic is given to numb the gum, especially if a fine scalpel is going to be used, so you should feel little to no pain. Within a few minutes the area feels fully numb, and with the guide marked, the dentist is ready to reshape.
2Step 2 of 2
How is the excess gum tissue trimmed and reshaped?
With the gum numb and the new line marked, the dentist gently reshapes the gum to reveal a more even smile. Using a soft-tissue laser or a fine scalpel, they carefully trim away the excess gum tissue and contour it to follow the marked line, evening out the heights so your teeth look better balanced. When a laser is used it seals the tissue as it works, so there is usually very little bleeding and normally no stitches (sutures) are needed. Because the area is numb, you should feel only mild pressure, nothing sharp. The result is a softer gum line that lets more of each tooth show when you smile, and the gum settles into its new shape over the days that follow.
Frequently asked questions about gum contouring
Does gum contouring hurt?
No, gum contouring is not the painful experience some people expect. It is carried out under local anaesthetic, so you should feel little to no pain during the treatment, just mild pressure. When a laser is used there is usually very little bleeding, and any soreness afterwards normally settles with simple painkillers and the aftercare advice we give you.
How long does gum contouring take?
Gum contouring can often be completed in a single sitting, as reshaping the gum line is a fairly quick procedure once the area is numb. The time depends on how many teeth are being treated. After examining your smile, the dentist at Surekha Dental Clinic will give you a clear idea of how long it will take.
How long do the results of gum contouring last?
For most patients the reshaped gum line holds its new shape well once it has healed, although in a few cases the gum can grow back a little over time. Results vary from person to person, and looking after your gums with good brushing and regular check-ups helps keep the new line stable and healthy.
Is gum contouring safe?
Yes, gum contouring is considered a safe and routine cosmetic procedure when carried out by a qualified dentist after a proper examination. Any active gum problems are treated first, so the gums are healthy before reshaping. Some mild soreness as the gum settles is normal and usually eases within a few days with the aftercare we explain to you.
Who is gum contouring suitable for?
Gum contouring suits people who feel their gums show too much when they smile, or whose gum line is uneven, making some teeth look shorter. Your gums and teeth should be healthy first. It is an elective cosmetic choice, so after a short examination the team at Surekha Dental Clinic will advise whether it is a good fit for you.
How much does gum contouring cost in Mumbai?
The cost of gum contouring depends on how many teeth are being reshaped and whether any gum treatment is needed first. There is no single fixed price. Please call Surekha Dental Clinic on +91 98334 88847 or use the booking form, and a written cost is provided after a short examination, with no obligation to proceed.
