Gum Contouring in Calabasas
When you smile, the first thing people often notice is the balance between your teeth and your gums. If your gums sit too low, look uneven, or make your teeth appear short, that can change how comfortable you feel in photos, at work, or in everyday conversation. At 805 Dentistry, we help patients from Calabasas and the surrounding communities reshape their gumline through gum contouring, a cosmetic periodontal treatment performed in our Thousand Oaks office.
Gum contouring, sometimes called gum reshaping, is a procedure that adjusts the shape and position of the gumline. In many cases, we carefully remove a small amount of excess gum tissue so more of each tooth is visible and the gumline follows a smoother, more even curve. This approach is closely related to a gingivectomy and, when bone is also involved, to crown lengthening. We offer both, so we can choose the method that fits what your mouth actually needs.
Patients come to us for a range of reasons. Some have what's often described as a "gummy smile," where a lot of gum shows when they grin. Others have one or two teeth where the gum sits higher or lower than its neighbors, creating an uneven look. Some are planning veneers, crowns, or a full smile makeover and want the gumline refined first so the final result looks balanced.
Our team includes a board-certified periodontist, a specialist in the gums and the structures that support the teeth. Because cosmetic gum contouring is part of our periodontal services, your treatment is planned by someone whose focus is gum health and gum aesthetics. You don't need a referral to schedule a periodontal consultation with us.
We also offer a wide range of cosmetic and restorative care under one roof, including porcelain veneers, composite bonding, in-office and take-home whitening, crowns, and Digital Smile Design. For Calabasas patients, that means your gum contouring can be coordinated with other treatment in the same practice instead of being split across several offices. Our on-site dental lab supports that coordination when restorations are part of your plan.
Am I a good candidate for gum contouring?
You may be a good candidate if your gums are healthy and you're bothered by how much gum shows, how uneven your gumline looks, or how short your teeth appear. The best way to know is an in-person exam, where we look closely at your gums, teeth, and bite.
Gum health comes first. If we find signs of gum disease, we'll typically address that before any cosmetic reshaping, using treatments such as scaling and root planing or other gum disease care. We'll also take imaging as needed to understand the underlying bone and tooth structure. In some cases, what looks like extra gum tissue is better addressed with crown lengthening, orthodontic treatment, or another approach. We'll explain what we see and why we're recommending a particular path.
What happens during the procedure, and is it uncomfortable?
The procedure is done in our office with the area numbed, so the goal is for you to stay comfortable throughout. Here's a general outline of what to expect:
- Consultation and planning: We discuss your goals, examine your gums, and map out the new gumline.
- Numbing: We numb the treatment area before we begin.
- Reshaping: Your periodontist carefully adjusts the gum tissue to create the planned shape.
- Review and instructions: We go over how to care for the area as it heals.
If dental visits make you anxious, let us know. Our practice has a board-certified dental anesthesiologist on staff and offers nitrous oxide, oral sedation, IV sedation, and general anesthesia. We'll talk through which option, if any, makes sense for your situation.
How do I care for my gums afterward?
Aftercare is generally straightforward, and we'll give you specific instructions before you leave. Following them closely helps your gums heal properly.
Expect guidance on how to brush and clean around the treated area, what foods to choose while your gums are tender, and when to return for a follow-up visit so we can check your healing. If anything feels unusual, call our office. We also offer emergency dental appointments if a concern comes up that can't wait.
How can I pay for gum contouring?
We accept all major PPO insurance plans, and we welcome self-pay patients. Because gum contouring is often considered cosmetic, insurance coverage varies, and our team can help you understand what your plan may or may not contribute before treatment begins.
Financing is also available, which lets many patients spread the cost over time. We'll review your treatment plan and costs with you up front, so you can make your decision with clear information. To schedule a consultation, contact 805 Dentistry, where we serve patients throughout Calabasas, Thousand Oaks, and the nearby communities.