An uneven gum line can change how your whole smile looks. Teeth may seem short, one side may look different from the other, or more gum may show than you would like when you laugh. Many people in Houston cover their smile or skip photos because of these concerns, and they often do not realize how many options exist to address them.
At Brilliant Dental Care in Houston, TX, Dr. Kevin M. Freeman, DDS, offers gum contouring as part of our cosmetic dentistry care at our Washington Ave office in Greater Heights. Dr. Freeman graduated from Indiana University School of Dentistry, completed a post-doctoral residency at UTHealth School of Dentistry in Houston, and has been caring for Houston patients for more than 20 years.
What Is Gum Contouring in Houston?
Gum contouring, also called gum reshaping or gingivoplasty, removes excess gum tissue or reshapes the gum line so your teeth and gums look more balanced. It can make teeth look longer, even out uneven gum heights, and improve the symmetry of your smile.
A gummy smile can have more than one cause, so a careful evaluation matters. A published case report on altered passive eruption explains how gum tissue that sits too far down the teeth can cause a gummy smile, and why the cause shapes the treatment choice.
Who May Benefit From Gum Contouring in Houston?
Gum contouring may be a good fit if you notice any of the concerns below, and Dr. Freeman can tell you after an exam whether it suits your smile.
Some cases also involve the bone beneath the gums. When that happens, a related procedure called crown lengthening may be a better fit, and Dr. Freeman explains the difference during your consultation.
How Laser Technology Helps With Gum Contouring in Houston
Dr. Freeman may use our Solea laser for gum contouring. A laser can reshape soft tissue with precision and help control bleeding as it works.
Your comfort comes first. Dr. Freeman may use local anesthesia, and we explain what to expect before we begin. Laser use depends on your treatment plan, so we confirm the best approach for your gum line during your evaluation.
What to Expect From Your Gum Contouring Visit in Houston
Gum contouring follows a clear path, and we guide you through each stage at our Houston office.
Many gum contouring cases can be completed in one visit, though the time depends on how many teeth are treated. Your gums continue to settle over the following weeks. Results are often long-lasting, and daily brushing, flossing, and regular exams and cleanings help protect them.
Combining Gum Contouring With Other Cosmetic Treatments in Houston
Gum contouring often comes first in a larger plan. Setting the gum line before treatment can help other cosmetic work look balanced. We may combine it with a smile makeover, porcelain veneers, composite bonding, or teeth whitening, depending on your goals.
We plan the order of treatment with you so each step supports the next. You can also read our blog on how gum contouring can transform your smile for more ideas.
Gum Contouring Questions From Houston Patients
Here are answers to common questions about gum contouring at our Greater Heights office.
Schedule Gum Contouring at Brilliant Dental Care in Houston
Dr. Kevin M. Freeman, DDS, has been caring for Houston patients for more than 20 years, with training from Indiana University School of Dentistry and UTHealth School of Dentistry. Our team at Brilliant Dental Care combines that experience with technology such as Solea laser dentistry and digital CBCT scans, and we offer flexible payment options to help make care fit your budget.
If an uneven gum line keeps you from smiling with confidence, we would love to talk with you about your options. Reach out through our contact form and we can help you schedule your Houston consultation.
