Gummy or uneven smile
For healthy gums that simply cover too much of the teeth, or sit at different heights.
- Teeth look short or square
- Gum line looks uneven
- Often combined with whitening or veneers
Gangnam Seoul · Gum reshaping in English
Gum Contouring in Gangnam Seoul
A “gummy” or uneven gum line can make healthy teeth look short or crooked. Gum contouring gently reshapes the gums so your teeth look balanced in your smile.
In short: gum contouring (gingivoplasty) is a minor procedure that removes or reshapes a small amount of gum tissue to even out the gum line or show more of each tooth. It suits adults with healthy gums who are bothered by a gummy or uneven smile. It is done under local anaesthetic, and most people feel tender for only a few days.
English-speaking team · Saturday appointments · Cheongdam Station Exit 14
Since 1996
Smile and gum care in Gangnam for 30 years
- SNU-trained All dentists trained at Seoul National University
- In English Options and aftercare explained in English
- 3D CT Imaging of the bone around your teeth
- Since 1996 30 years caring for smiles in Gangnam
Understanding gum reshaping
What is gum contouring?
Gum contouring changes the shape of the gum line, not the teeth. The dentist removes or re-sculpts a small amount of gum so each tooth shows at a more natural length. If bone sits too close to the edge, crown lengthening may be needed instead.
Before a crown or filling
Sometimes more tooth needs to be exposed so a restoration can fit and be cleaned well.
- Decay or a break near the gum line
- May involve bone reshaping
- Planned together with the restoration
Is it right for you?
Good candidates
- Adults with healthy gums and no active gum disease
- Teeth that look short because gum covers them
- An uneven gum line between front teeth
Worth knowing
Limitations
- A gummy smile caused by the jaw or lip may need other treatment
- Gum disease must be treated first
- Removed gum does not grow back
How it works
Your gum contouring, step by step.
We plan carefully first, because the gum line frames every tooth in your smile.
- 1
Consultation
We check gum health and take X-rays of the bone.
First visit - 2
Smile plan
Your dentist shows which teeth will change.
First visit - 3
Numbing
Local anaesthetic is used so you feel pressure, not sharp pain.
Treatment day - 4
Reshaping
Excess gum is removed and shaped to the plan.
Usually under an hour - 5
Check-up
We review healing and the final gum line.
About 1–2 weeks later
Options at a glance
Gum contouring options in Seoul
Your dentist will recommend the right scope after the examination.
| Option | Best for |
|---|---|
| Minor gum reshaping | One or a few teeth |
| Full smile design (upper gum line) | Gummy smile across the front teeth |
| Crown lengthening | Extra bone under the gum, or before a crown |
Costs depend on your diagnosis and the treatment you choose. After your examination we give you a written, itemised quote in English before any treatment begins.
For international patients
Visiting Seoul? Gum contouring fits a short stay.
Our English coordinator plans your visits around your trip, and your dentist explains the plan in English before anything begins.
- Residents: cosmetic treatment is usually not covered by Korean NHIS.
- U.S. military families: we work with TRICARE Dental.
- Visitors: English receipts for your insurer.
A typical visit plan
- Before you arrive
Send a smile photo on WhatsApp or email.
- Day 1
Examination, X-rays and a written plan in English.
- Day 1–3
Contouring, often on the same or next visit.
- 1–2 weeks
Healing check here or with your home dentist.
If crown lengthening is needed, allow extra time in Seoul for healing. Your dentist will give you an exact timeline.
After treatment
Caring for your new gum line
Gums usually feel tender for a few days. These steps help them heal well:
- Eat soft, cool foods for the first 1–2 days
- Brush gently with a soft brush around the treated area
- Avoid spicy, hot or crunchy food until it feels comfortable
- Do not smoke while the gums heal
Questions patients ask us
Gum contouring FAQ
Does gum contouring hurt?
The area is numbed with local anaesthetic, so most people feel pressure rather than pain. Gums can feel tender for a few days.
How long does it take to heal?
Most people return to normal activities the next day. The gums usually settle within one to two weeks.
Will my gums grow back?
Removed gum does not normally grow back when the plan respects the bone level, so the new line stays stable.
Is gum contouring done with a laser?
Gum reshaping can be done with a laser or with fine surgical instruments. Your dentist will explain which method suits your gums at the consultation.
How much does gum contouring cost in Seoul?
Cost depends on your diagnosis, the materials and the number of teeth or visits involved. After your examination we give you a written, itemised quote in English before any treatment begins.
Where is A Plus Dental Clinic and how do I book?
3F Samgang Building, 704 Yeongdong-daero, Gangnam-gu — right outside Exit 14 of Cheongdam Station (Line 7), with free parking. Book on WhatsApp at +82 10-9325-2875
or email aplus.dentalclinic@gmail.com.
Come and say hello
Unhappy with your gum line? Let's talk.
Message us in English — we'll find a time that suits you and explain what to expect.
- Address
- 3F Samgang Building, 704 Yeongdong-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
- Subway
- Cheongdam Station (Line 7), right outside Exit 14
- Hours
- Mon–Fri 9:30–18:00 (lunch 12:30–13:00)
Saturday 9:00–13:00 (no lunch break)
Closed Sundays & public holidays - +82 10-9325-2875
- Phone
- +82 10-9325-2875
This page is for general information and does not replace an examination by a dentist. A Plus Dental Clinic · Gangnam, Seoul · Since 1996 · Last updated October 2026
