Treatments
Gummy smile? What gum contouring can (and cannot) change
A few millimetres of gum can change how a whole smile reads in photos. Here is when contouring helps.
Gum contouring reshapes the gum line so teeth look longer and more even. It works best when extra gum covers healthy teeth. Simple contouring at Guardians Dental is done in one visit, with a reference fee of ₩100,000. If the cause is bone, tooth position or lip movement, a different plan may suit you better.
Why a smile looks “gummy”
- Extra gum covering part of the tooth, so teeth look short.
- Uneven gum line, where one tooth looks longer than its neighbour.
- Bone or jaw position, which gum work alone will not change.
- An active upper lip that lifts higher than average.
The first two respond well to contouring. The last two need a different discussion, and we will tell you honestly.
The visit
A periodontist measures your gum depth and plans the new line, often with photos so you can see the change first. Simple contouring is done under local anaesthetic in a single visit. When bone needs reshaping as well, we use DIAperio, our gum-and-bone programme, which takes about a week.
The combination people ask for
Contouring is often paired with DIAlami veneers: first even out the frame, then refine the teeth. Gums need to settle before veneers are finalised, so this needs a longer stay; ask us for a plan.
Healing
- Gums feel tender for a few days.
- Skip spicy and very hot food at first. Tteokbokki can wait.
- Brush gently with a soft brush around the area.
Questions people ask
How much is gum contouring in Seoul?
Simple gum contouring at Guardians Dental has a reference fee of ₩100,000. Your final fee is confirmed before treatment.
Is gum contouring permanent?
Usually stable when done on healthy gums with good brushing, though gums can shift a little over time.
Can gum contouring fix every gummy smile?
No. If the cause is bone, jaw position or lip movement, we discuss other options.
✓Clinically reviewed by Dr. Changmin Lee, periodontist, Guardians Dental Myeongdong, on 15 October 2026. This article is general information for travellers and does not replace an in-person exam.
