Cosmetic Dentistry
Precise recontouring of gum tissue to create a balanced, harmonious smile. Planned with digital imaging. Performed with surgical accuracy.
The Approach
A gummy smile is not a dental emergency, but it can be a daily source of self-consciousness. At Capital Dental Design, gum contouring begins with a complete evaluation of your smile proportions. Dr. Forbes analyzes how much gum tissue is visible when you speak, smile, and laugh.
The treatment is planned digitally before any tissue is touched. The goal is a natural-looking gumline that frames your teeth in proportion to your face, your lips, and your overall smile architecture.
Your gum tissue frames your teeth the way a border frames a photograph. When that frame is uneven or too prominent, even beautiful teeth cannot be fully appreciated.
What Gum Contouring Corrects
Gum contouring addresses excessive gum tissue that makes teeth appear short, uneven gumlines that create an asymmetric smile, and tissue excess caused by genetics, certain medications, or orthodontic treatment. The result is a proportionate display of teeth and gums that looks natural and enhances your overall facial aesthetics.
See Real Results
The Process
A carefully planned procedure focused on precision, comfort, and lasting results.
Dr. Forbes evaluates your smile, photographs your teeth and gums from multiple angles, and takes digital scans. Your gum-to-tooth ratio is analyzed relative to your facial proportions.
Using your imaging data, Dr. Forbes maps the ideal gumline contour. You review the plan and approve the target result before any treatment begins.
A local anesthetic is administered to ensure complete comfort throughout the procedure. Sedation is available for patients who prefer a more relaxed experience.
Dr. Forbes removes small amounts of gum tissue using a scalpel or laser until the planned gumline is achieved. The technique is precise and controlled.
The gums heal quickly after contouring. Most patients return to normal activities within a day or two. Full healing is typically complete within two to three weeks.
Get Started
Have questions or ready to take the next step? Fill out the form below and our team will be in touch within one business day.
Real Patients, Real Results
Every case documented from initial presentation through final delivery.
Why Gummy Smile and Gum Contouring
Gum contouring creates a harmonious ratio of teeth to gums, producing a smile that appears more proportionate and visually balanced.
The procedure is one of the safest and least invasive in cosmetic dentistry. It is performed under local anesthesia in a single visit.
Once gum tissue is removed, it does not regenerate. Provided you maintain good oral hygiene, the results are lasting.
Removing excess gum tissue eliminates deep pockets where bacteria can accumulate, supporting healthier gums over the long term.
Most patients experience minimal discomfort and return to daily routines within one to two days following the procedure.
A balanced gumline transforms the overall appearance of your smile, eliminating the self-consciousness that a gummy smile can cause.
Your Dentist
The only provider in Richmond certified in Digital Smile Design. Advanced training in cosmetic and implant dentistry. Every gummy smile and gum contouring case receives his personal attention from consultation through final result. One doctor. One standard.
Meet Dr. Forbes
Address
6946 Forest Ave, Suite 205
Richmond, VA 23230
Phone
804.320.8894Hours
Monday – Thursday
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
