Gum Contouring in Oak Park
When you smile, laugh in photos, or speak in a meeting, your gums frame your teeth just as much as the teeth themselves do. If your gumline looks uneven, covers too much of your teeth, or makes your smile seem "gummy," it can change how comfortable you feel showing it. For patients in Oak Park who want a more balanced smile, gum contouring is one of the cosmetic treatments we offer at 805 Dentistry, and it is performed with the experience of a board-certified periodontist on our team.
Gum contouring is a cosmetic procedure that reshapes the gumline so it sits at a more even, proportionate level along your teeth. Sometimes this means gently removing a small amount of excess gum tissue so teeth appear their natural length. Other times it means evening out a gumline that sits higher over some teeth than others. Because our periodontics team also performs crown lengthening and gingivectomy, we understand how gum tissue relates to the teeth and bone beneath it. That matters for both appearance and long-term health.
Many of our Oak Park patients come to us with concerns like these:
- Teeth that look short or "hidden" because gum tissue covers more of the tooth surface than usual
- A gumline that is noticeably higher on one side or around certain teeth
- A smile that shows more gum than tooth when they laugh or grin
- Plans for veneers, bonding, or whitening that would look best with a more even gum frame
Gum contouring can be a standalone treatment or part of a broader smile makeover. We also offer porcelain veneers, composite bonding, in-office and take-home whitening, and digital smile design, so we can coordinate several treatments in one practice rather than sending you elsewhere.
Your first visit begins with a conversation. We want to hear what bothers you about your smile and what you hope to change. Then we perform a thorough exam of your teeth and gums. Healthy gums are an important starting point. If we find signs of gum disease, we may recommend treatments such as scaling and root planing first, so your contouring rests on a stable, healthy foundation.
Because our periodontics team accepts patients without a referral, Oak Park residents can schedule directly with us. We also offer 2D and 3D dental imaging, including CBCT when appropriate. This helps us look closely at the relationship between your gums, teeth, and supporting bone before recommending a plan. If gum contouring is a good fit, we will walk you through what it involves and how it fits with any other cosmetic goals you have.
What happens during the gum contouring procedure?
During the procedure, our team carefully reshapes your gum tissue according to the plan we agreed on together. Before we begin, we make sure the area is comfortable. We want you to feel informed at each step, so we explain what we are doing as we go.
If dental visits make you nervous, you have options. Our practice includes a board-certified dental anesthesiologist, and we offer nitrous oxide, oral sedation, IV sedation, and general anesthesia for patients with dental anxiety. We will talk through which approach suits your needs and comfort level during your consultation. That way you can come in from Oak Park knowing exactly what to expect on treatment day.
How do I care for my gums afterward?
You should follow the specific aftercare instructions we give you, because they are tailored to the treatment you received. In general, this includes gentle brushing around the treated area, paying attention to what you eat while your gums settle, and reaching out to us with any questions or concerns.
We also schedule follow-up visits to check on your healing and make sure your new gumline is settling as planned. Over the long term, regular cleanings, exams, and periodontal maintenance help protect your results and your overall gum health. Because we see children and adults of all ages, Oak Park families can keep everyone's routine care in one place alongside cosmetic treatment.
How can I pay for gum contouring?
We accept all major PPO insurance plans and welcome self-pay patients. Gum contouring is often considered cosmetic, so coverage depends on your specific plan and the reason for treatment. Our team is happy to review your situation and explain your options before you commit to anything.
Financing is also available. It can make it easier to move forward with gum contouring, or with a larger smile makeover, without paying the full cost at once. If you live in Oak Park and have been thinking about a more even, confident smile, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Dar Radfar and our team at 805 Dentistry in Thousand Oaks.