Contouring & Reshaping You Gums

A gum lift (also called gum contouring or cosmetic gum reshaping) is a minimally invasive treatment that sculpts excess gum tissue to reveal more tooth and balance an uneven gum line. It’s a popular gummy smile treatment that can enhance your smile, often in a single visit.

At Dentistry on Solent in Bella Vista, we provide laser gum lift and conventional techniques for adults from Norwest, Kellyville, Baulkham Hills, Castle Hill and Rouse Hill.

Contact us if you have any more questions!

    About Dr Sejal Rai

    As a University of Sydney graduate, Dr Rai has a diverse background. After growing up in central Africa and completing her secondary education and Bachelor’s degree in the US, she is well positioned to treat a wide variety of multicultural patients. With a keen eye for precision and great chairside manner, she is described by her patients as being caring, kind and totally committed to patient care.

    Away from the practice, Dr Rai loves spending quality time with her 3 children and this allows her to treat children and special needs patients with an unparalleled level of ease. In addition, her focus and passion for helping adults achieve their perfect smile is a great motivator and is what keeps her at the forefront of modern dentistry in Bella Vista.

    Quick facts (perfect for quick scans)

    • What it does: Removes or reshapes excess gum tissue to expose more tooth and level an uneven gum line.
    • Who it helps: People with a “gummy smile,” short-looking teeth, or asymmetric gums.
    • Comfort: Local anaesthetic; laser techniques typically mean less bleeding and a smoother recovery for suitable cases.
    • Time: Many cosmetic gum lifts take 30–90 minutes depending on how many teeth are treated.
    • Downtime: Usually mild tenderness for a few days; most people return to normal activities the same day.
    • Cost guide: Quotes are personalised; most cosmetic cases are priced per tooth/area. Many patients spend a few hundred dollars per tooth depending on complexity. (We provide an itemised, fixed quote after assessment.)

    What is a cosmetic gum lift?

    A cosmetic gum lift (also called gingivectomy/gingivoplasty) reshapes the soft tissue around your teeth to make the smile line more symmetrical and show more enamel. It can be a stand-alone treatment or part of a smile makeover with teeth whiteningporcelain veneerscomposite veneers or Invisalign treatment.

    Laser gum lift vs traditional approaches

    We offer both options and recommend the best method after a full assessment and x-rays.

    Laser gum lift

    • Uses focused light energy to precisely contour soft tissue.
    • In suitable cases, can reduce bleeding and support a smoother recovery.
    • Ideal for minor to moderate gum reshaping and aesthetic refinement.

    Traditional reshaping / Crown lengthening

    • Preferred when both gum and bone levels need adjustment for long-term stability.
    • Often used to gain access for a restoration (e.g. a crown).
    • Discussed in detail if functional needs outweigh purely cosmetic goals.

    Who is a candidate?

    • Excess gum tissue (a “gummy smile”) covering healthy teeth
    • Uneven gum heights that make teeth look different lengths
    • Short-looking front teeth despite good alignment
    • Healthy gums and good oral hygiene (we’ll treat any gum disease first)

    The gum lift procedure (step by step)

    1. Smile design & measurements – We map your ideal smile line, assessing tooth size, lip dynamics and facial balance.
    2. Anaesthesia – Local anaesthetic keeps you comfortable; sleep dentistry options are available if you’re anxious.
    3. Tissue re-contouring – Laser or micro-surgical reshaping to the planned line; crown lengthening may include minor bone contouring if needed.
    4. Polish & check – We blend margins and confirm symmetry in natural and smiling poses.
    5. Aftercare – Simple instructions plus a review appointment to ensure smooth healing.

    Benefits

    • Instant smile balance with longer-looking, well-proportioned teeth
    • Precise shaping for a natural, not “overdone,” result
    • Comfortable appointment with local anaesthetic (sedation available)
    • Often one visit for cosmetic reshaping; combined plans can be staged

    Risks & considerations

    • Temporary tenderness or swelling
    • Mild gum rebound as tissue settles (we plan for this in the design)
    • Not a substitute for treating active gum infection—periodontal care may be required first
    • Some cases need functional crown lengthening with bone adjustment for stability

    Recovery & aftercare

    • Tenderness typically 24–72 hours; most people resume normal activities immediately
    • Brush gently with a soft brush; avoid very hot/spicy foods for 1–2 days
    • Rinse with salt water or as advised; take recommended analgesics if needed
    • Attend your review so we can fine-tune the result or coordinate with veneers/aligners

    How much does a gum lift cost in Bella Vista?

    Gum lift cost is tailored to your goals and the number of teeth/areas treated. As a general guide, cosmetic reshaping is typically quoted per tooth or per smile zone. Many patients invest a few hundred dollars per tooth, depending on whether a laser gum lift or functional crown lengthening is required. You’ll receive a fixed, itemised quote after your assessment, and we can discuss payment options.

    Tip: If you’re considering veneers or Invisalign, combining treatments within a smile makeover plan can streamline costs and visits.

    Gum lift vs gum grafting

    Gum lift/contouring removes excess tissue to show more tooth and correct uneven gum lines (ideal for gummy smiles). Gum grafting adds tissue to cover recession and protect exposed roots. If parts of your smile have too much gum while other areas show recession, your plan may include both for balance and health.

    FAQ: People Also Ask

    What is a gum lift?

    A gum lift is a cosmetic reshaping of gum tissue to expose more tooth enamel and harmonise your smile line. It’s also called gum contouringgingivectomy or gingivoplasty.

    What is a gum lift procedure?

    It’s a planned re-contouring of the gums—often using a dental laser—to achieve even gum heights and longer-looking teeth. Some cases require bone adjustment (crown lengthening) for stability.

    How much is a gum lift / how much does gum lift surgery cost?

    Fees depend on the number of teeth/areas, whether laser or crown lengthening is needed, and whether it’s part of a broader plan (e.g., veneers or aligners). Most cosmetic cases are a few hundred dollars per tooth; we confirm a fixed quote after assessment.

    Why does my gum “lift up”?

    “Lifting” or puffiness may be swelling from gingivitis/periodontitis, hormones, certain medications (causing gum overgrowth) or local irritation. We treat the cause before cosmetic work.

    How can I get a gum lift naturally?

    You can’t change gum architecture naturally. Improved hygiene may reduce inflammation, but reshaping the gum line requires a dental procedure.

    What is a cosmetic gum lift vs crown lengthening?

    A cosmetic gum lift typically adjusts soft tissue only. Crown lengthening also adjusts supporting bone and is indicated when more tooth structure is needed for restorations or long-term tissue stability.

    Does a gum lift hurt?

    We use local anaesthetic. Most people describe pressure or warmth during laser steps and mild tenderness for a day or two afterwards. Sedation is available if you’re anxious.

    How long does a gum lift take to heal?

    Initial healing is usually a few days; tissue maturation continues for 4–8 weeks. We plan any final polishing or veneer steps around this timeline.

    Ready to Balance Your Smile Line?

    Call (02) 9158 6137 or book online to schedule your gum graft consultation in Bella Vista. Related info: laser dentistry · emergency dentist · about us