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RESHAPING YOUR GUMS (Understanding Gum Contouring In Singapore)

Gum Contouring (Gingivoplasty) in Singapore

 

What is Gum Contouring?

Gum contouring (gingivoplasty) is a dental procedure aimed at adjusting the gum line for functional and aesthetic considerations, based on clinical assessment. This procedure can be performed using traditional methods with scalpels or more modern techniques like laser surgery, depending on the specific needs and goals of the patient. Some adults consider cosmetic dental procedures such as gum contouring for aesthetic reasons. More details can be found below: read on to find out if you're a suitable candidate!

Types of Gum Contouring

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Types of Gum Contouring

Here's a look at the various types of gum contouring available in 2026, each tailored to meet specific aesthetic and health needs.

 

1. Laser Gum Contouring

Offers a minimally invasive alternative with a precision laser, which may be associated with shorter recovery times and reduced discomfort in selected cases. It may be considered for patients where limited gum reshaping is clinically appropriate.

 

2. Traditional Gum Contouring

Utilises scalpels or lasers for adjustments to the gum line, aimed at enhancing the proportion between gums and teeth. This method tends to involve a longer recovery period and may be used when more extensive reshaping is required.

 

3. Celebrity Gum Contouring

A customised cosmetic approach that may combine multiple techniques based on individual aesthetic goals. This tailored approach often combines various techniques which may be planned alongside other cosmetic dental procedures where clinically appropriate.

 

4. Gum Contouring For Receding Gums

Addresses gum recession by possibly grafting tissue to rebuild the gum area, which may address aesthetic concerns and support gum coverage of exposed tooth roots.

 

5. Gum Contouring After Braces

Targets uneven gum lines post-orthodontic treatment, refining the gum line appearance following orthodontic treatment. This option is ideal for correcting a "gummy smile" or enhancing tooth exposure after braces removal.

Gum Contouring Procedure in 2026

Before the Procedure

  • Consultation with a dental specialist is necessary.
  • Discuss cosmetic goals and assess candidacy.
  • Devise a treatment plan, potentially including a preview of proposed adjustments.
  • Administer local anaesthesia for comfort during the procedure.

During the Procedure

  • Scalpels or advanced lasers are used for incisions.
  • If needed, radiosurgery is employed for controlled cutting and coagulation.
  • The aim is to adjust the gum line based on aesthetic and functional considerations.
  • Duration ranges from 15 minutes to 1 hour based on individual needs.

Aftercare and Recovery

  • Timeline: Some patients may resume normal activities within a short period, depending on individual healing and procedure extent. Healing time varies, with many patients recovering over one to two weeks.
  • Managing Swelling and Discomfort: Swelling and discomfort are expected to subside within a few days. These can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Applying ice packs can also help reduce swelling and alleviate pain.
  • Oral Hygiene: It’s crucial to maintain good oral hygiene post-operation to avoid irritation.
  • Dietary Advice: For the first few days after surgery, patients are advised to consume soft, cool foods like eggs, pasta, yoghurt, cottage cheese, soft vegetables, and ice cream.
  • Antibiotics: Antibiotics may be prescribed post-surgery to prevent infection, especially for patients with underlying health conditions or compromised immune systems

Gum Contouring Benefits

  • Aesthetic Improvement: May help improve the balance between gums and teeth in selected cases.
  • Oral Health: May reduce exposure of tooth surfaces that can contribute to sensitivity or plaque accumulation.
  • Improved Smile Line: Your smile line is enhanced, which may influence personal satisfaction with smile appearance.
  • Cosmetic Dentist Expertise: Benefit from a cosmetic dentist’s skills in gum reshaping.
  • Even Gum Line: Uneven gum lines are smoothed out, promoting a uniform appearance.

Gum Contouring Benefits

implant treatment

Gum Contouring Techniques

You may need dental implants if:

Here are some gum contouring techniques used in Singapore:

  • Laser Gum Contouring: This minimally invasive procedure uses a laser to move back your gum line. It's done under local anaesthetic.
  • Gum Graft Surgery: In selected cases, gum graft surgery can be performed to cover the gum recession area and minimise further recession and the loss of its underlying bone¹.
  • Surgical Crown Lengthening: For larger volume gum reshaping, surgical crown lengthening that also re-contours the underlying bone may be required.
  • Electrocautery: For very minimal reshaping, electrocautery can be used. This does not require stitches, produces minimal bleeding, and heals rapidly.

Gum Contouring Techniques

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What is a Gummy Smile?

Laughing girl with a gummy smile

1. A gummy smile is when your smile shows more gum than is typically aesthetically pleasing.

 

2. Excess gum tissue over your teeth can make them appear short.

 

3. An uneven gum line may make your teeth look asymmetrical.

 

4. Consult a dental professional to discuss whether treatment options may be suitable.

 

A gummy smile may be associated with certain dental conditions. A dental assessment can help determine appropriate management options.

What Causes a Gummy Smile?

You may need dental implants if:
  • Genetic predisposition: Your genes often determine your gum line's natural contour and the proportion of gum to teeth, which can sometimes result in a gummy appearance.
  • Health problems: Certain conditions can lead to a gummy smile, for example, periodontal disease, affecting gum health and potentially altering the gum line.
  • Swelling from infections: Bacterial infections in the gums can cause swelling, sometimes making your smile appear gummier.
  • Medication side effects: Some medications have side effects that include gum tissue overgrowth, contributing to a gummy smile.
  • Even gum lines: A visually pleasing smile typically features an even gum line; deviations from this can make your smile seem gummy.

What Causes a Gummy Smile?

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Conditions Addressed By Gum Contouring

Gum Contouring Complementary Procedures

To achieve better smile aesthetics and oral health, consider these complementary treatments:

Pocket Reduction Surgery:

  • Purpose: Addresses periodontal disease by cleaning the spaces (pockets) between the gum and teeth.
  • Benefits: Reduces pocket depth, combats gum disease, and stabilises the foundation for cosmetic procedures like gum contouring.
  • Relevance: Ensures a healthy gum environment, enhancing the durability and aesthetics of gum contouring results.

Dental Veneers:

  • Purpose: Thin, custom-made shells designed to cover the front surface of teeth, improving their appearance.
  • Benefits: Corrects discoloration, chips, or misalignment in teeth, complementing the improved gum line achieved through contouring.
  • Relevance: Offers a comprehensive smile makeover when combined with gum contouring, addressing both teeth and gum aesthetics to address both tooth and gum appearance where clinically appropriate.

Gum Contouring Risks

Before undergoing gum contouring, it's important to understand the potential risks involved. Here are some risks associated with the procedure:

  • Infection: The exposed areas post-surgery may become infected.
  • Bleeding: You might experience bleeding during or after the procedure.
  • Sensitivity: Your gums may be sensitive to temperature changes or pressure.

Gum Contouring Complications

While gum contouring is generally safe, there are rare complications that may arise. Here are some potential complications:

  • Post-procedure gum recession: Although rare, this may occur.
  • Overcorrection potential: In some instances, excessive tissue removal could affect your gum line's appearance.

Gum Contouring Cost in Singapore

Costs in Singapore range from $218 to $708.50 per tooth, with variations based on the complexity of the case. Consult Nuffield Dental for a personalised assessment and cost estimate.

*All fees are subject to prevailing Singapore Goods and Services Tax.

*Fee adjustments may apply depending on the number of teeth treated.

Are There Subsidies for Gum Contouring in Singapore?

  • Typically viewed as a cosmetic, elective procedure; no general subsidies (such as CHAS and Medisave) are available.
  • Dental Insurance: Some policies may offer partial coverage under specific terms. Check with your provider.

Are There Subsidies for Gum Contouring in Singapore?

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The Team at Nuffield Dental

At Nuffield Dental, we:

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Ensure safety in all dental surgeries with strict surgical set-up and sterilisation protocol.

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Check the patient’s medical history before every surgical procedure.

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Adhere to high standards for infection control, hygiene, and professionalism.

Sanitise and disinfect the area after each patient.

Provide official staff training four times a year and develop ‘Personal Development Portfolios’ for all staff.

Carry out internal appraisals as part of staff development processes.

At Nuffield Dental, your care is managed by registered dental professionals using established materials and equipment in a clinical setting. Contact us for an appointment today.

FAQs

1. Is it Safe to Contour Your Gums?

Yes, gum contouring is generally safe when performed by a qualified dental professional. Risks are minimal and can include infection or gum tissue regrowth, but these are rare with proper care.

2. How Long Does Gum Contouring Last?

Once done, the new gum line is typically permanent, and with proper maintenance, like regular oral hygiene, the results should endure. Regular dental check-ups also help sustain your gum contour's appearance.

3. How Many Gum Contouring Sessions Will I Need?

The number of gum contouring sessions varies based on individual needs and treatment goals. Generally, one session per tooth is typical, but your dentist will advise based on your specific case.

4. When is Gum Contouring Surgery Medically Necessary?

Gum contouring surgery is medically necessary when excessive gum tissue affects oral health, causes discomfort, or hampers proper dental hygiene, leading to issues like gum disease or difficulty in eating and speaking.

5. How Common is Gum Contouring?

Gum contouring is a frequent cosmetic dentistry choice, addressing concerns like "gummy smiles". Your unique dental needs often dictate its prevalence. Generally, it's more familiar among those seeking aesthetic improvements to their smile.

6. What Type of Doctors Perform Gum Contouring?

Periodontists and cosmetic dentists perform gum contouring, a procedure aimed at reshaping the gum line to improve the appearance of a person's smile and oral health.

7. Is Gum Contouring Worth it?

It depends on your needs and goals. For those looking to improve their smile due to excessive gum tissue, it can significantly enhance appearance and boost confidence.

Medical References

Diaspro, A., et al. (2018). Gummy Smile Treatment: Proposal for a novel corrective technique and a review of the literature. Aesthetic Surgery Journal, 38(12), 1330–1338. https://doi.org/10.1093/asj/sjy174

 

Venugopal, A., et al. (2024). Gummy Smiles: Etiologies, Diagnoses & Formulating a Clinically Effective Treatment Protocol. Seminars in Orthodontics. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.sodo.2023.11.014

Our Team

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At Nuffield Dental clinic, your dental needs are cared for by our dedicated team of dentists.

Dr Bruce Lee Ziahern

Specialisation

Gum Disease Treatment

Training

BDS (UK)

The Nuffield Dental Clinic Network In Singapore

Seletar Dental

Nuffield Dental Seletar
Greenwich V
1 Seletar Road #01-07/08
Singapore 807011

Kovan Dental

Nuffield Dental Kovan
Simon Plaza
2 Kovan Road #01-03
Singapore 548008

Serangoon Dental

Nuffield Dental Serangoon Gardens
Serangoon Garden Estate
57 Serangoon Garden Way
Singapore 555953

Siglap Dental

Nuffield Dental Siglap
The Domain
914 East Coast Road #01-03
Singapore 459108

Bedok Dental

Nuffield Dental Simpang Bedok
East Village
430 Upper Changi Road #01-64
Singapore 487048

Holland Village Dental

Nuffield Dental Holland Village
7 Holland Village Way #03-16
Singapore 275748

Jurong East Dental

Nuffield Dental Westgate
Westgate
3 Gateway Dr #04-32
Singapore 608532

HarbourFront Dental

Nuffield Dental HarbourFront
HarbourFront Centre
1 Maritime Square #02-64A
Singapore 099253

Orchard Dental

Nuffield Dental Jewel
Wheelock Place
501 Orchard Road #05-01
Singapore 238880

Raffles Place Dental

Nuffield Dental Raffles Place
One Raffles Place
1 Raffles Place #05-19
Singapore 048616

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Why Choose Nuffield Dental?

Nuffield Dental is a one-stop, multi-disciplinary dental care centre in Singapore. At Nuffield, we put you first. We believe in providing personalised service for each patient.

Dental care

Nuffield Dental is a one-stop, multi-disciplinary dental care centre. Here at Nuffield Dental, we pride ourselves of our personalised oral care for each and every one of our patients. We need to make sure you get all the help you need to make your dental procedures comfortable, accessible and seamless.

Dental implant

Our dentists have specialised in implant dentistry and oral surgery for 20+ years. We have accredited dental providers who are skilled in the area of dental implant surgery.

Gum Contouring Costs in Singapore?

Please call one of our Nuffield Dental clinics in Singapore for pricing details.

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What is Gum Disease-1
A Comprehensive Look at Gum Disease Treatment in Singapore
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