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Gum Contouring Los Angeles

LA Dental Clinic is a cosmetic dentistry practice in Los Angeles trusted by actors, public figures, and patients from across the country for results that look completely natural. Gum contouring at LA Dental Clinic reshapes the gumline to correct a gummy smile, uneven gum tissue, or teeth that appear short because the gums sit too low, producing a more balanced, natural-looking smile that complements the surrounding cosmetic work.
One Visit
Treatment Completed
Natural
Balanced Gumline

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Teaching Faculty

What Is Gum Contouring?

Gum contouring, also referred to as gum reshaping or gingivoplasty, is a cosmetic dental procedure that removes and resculpts excess or uneven gum tissue to expose more of the natural tooth crown and create a more balanced gumline. It is performed under local anaesthesia and can typically be completed in a single appointment. The procedure addresses gummy smiles, where too much gum is visible when smiling, asymmetric gumlines where the gum sits at different heights on adjacent teeth, and teeth that appear small or short because the gum covers more of the crown than it should. Gum contouring is often planned as part of a broader smile makeover, coordinated with veneers, composite bonding, or teeth whitening to achieve the complete cosmetic result.

What Gum Contouring at LA Dental Clinic Can Address

LA Dental Clinic offers gum contouring as part of its cosmetic dentistry services in Los Angeles, treating both isolated asymmetry and full-arch gumline concerns as part of a tailored smile makeover plan.

Gummy Smile Correction

Excess gum tissue is removed and reshaped to reveal more of the natural tooth crown, reducing the amount of gum visible when you smile.

Uneven Gumline Correction

Gum tissue is contoured to create a symmetrical, balanced gumline across the full smile where gums sit at different heights on different teeth.

Pre-Veneer Gum Preparation

Gum contouring performed before veneers or composite bonding are placed, ensuring the gumline is correctly positioned so the final cosmetic restoration sits in the right location.

Short Crown Appearance

Where teeth appear short not because of their actual length but because excess gum tissue covers the clinical crown, gum contouring exposes the full tooth without altering the tooth itself.

Single Tooth Contouring

Adjustment of the gumline on one or two teeth where an isolated area of asymmetry affects the overall balance of the smile without requiring treatment across the full arch.

Full Smile Gum Reshaping

Gum contouring across all visible upper teeth, typically planned as part of a full smile makeover in combination with veneers, composite bonding, or teeth whitening.

Why Choose LA Dental Clinic for Gum Contouring in Los Angeles

Gum contouring at LA Dental Clinic is planned within the context of the full smile. The gumline is one of the most important factors in how a smile looks, and its position affects how every other cosmetic treatment performs.
  • Gum contouring at LA Dental Clinic is planned as part of the overall smile design, not in isolation. The target gumline position is determined alongside any planned veneers, bonding, or whitening so every element works together.
  • The conservative approach applied across all treatments at LA Dental Clinic means only the tissue necessary to achieve the planned result is removed. The goal is a natural gumline that does not look visibly altered.
  • For patients having veneers or composite bonding placed in the same smile makeover, gum contouring is sequenced correctly, performed before the cosmetic restorations are placed, so the final result is exactly as planned.
  • Both Dr. Arezoo and Dr. Azy Nasiry hold UCLA faculty positions and bring over 30 years of combined cosmetic dental experience to every case. Gum contouring is assessed and planned with the same clinical rigour applied to every other cosmetic procedure at the practice.
  • The smile makeover page at LA Dental Clinic lists gum contouring alongside veneers, composite bonding, and Invisalign as part of the full cosmetic offering, reflecting how often it is combined with other treatments to achieve a complete result.
Gum contouring is most effective when planned as part of a full smile design. LA Dental Clinic assesses the gumline position during every cosmetic consultation, because where the gum sits directly affects how the teeth and any restorations will look once treatment is complete.

How Gum Contouring Works at LA Dental Clinic

Gum contouring at LA Dental Clinic is completed in a single appointment. The steps below reflect how the procedure is performed in the context of the practice's overall approach to cosmetic treatment planning.
1
Consultation and Smile Assessment
Gum contouring is assessed as part of the broader smile consultation at LA Dental Clinic. The position of the gumline relative to the teeth is evaluated clinically, and the target gumline is planned in the context of any other cosmetic treatments being considered. Where veneers or composite bonding are also planned, the sequence of treatment is determined at this stage.
2
Treatment Planning and Gumline Design
After the scan is approved, the digital prescription is completed. This includes the type of restoration, material, and shade. Each prescription is signed using a secure, dentist-specific PIN. The finalised digital impression is then sent securely to the 3M™ Connection Center, where it is ready for design and production.
3
Local Anaesthesia
The area to be treated is numbed with local anaesthesia before any tissue is removed. Gum contouring is performed under full local anaesthesia, so the procedure itself should not be uncomfortable. The anaesthetic is applied to the gum tissue directly.
4
Gum Contouring and Reshaping
The excess gum tissue is carefully removed and the gumline is reshaped to match the planned position. The tissue is contoured to produce a smooth, natural curve that follows the outline of each tooth. Where contouring is being performed across multiple teeth, each tooth is treated individually to achieve the correct proportions across the full arch.
5
Recovery and Follow-Up
The gum tissue heals relatively quickly following contouring. Some soreness and minor swelling are normal in the days immediately after the procedure. LA Dental Clinic provides post-operative care instructions and schedules a follow-up appointment to assess healing and confirm the final result. Where gum contouring is the first stage of a broader smile makeover, subsequent cosmetic treatments are scheduled once the gumline has healed.

What Gum Contouring Results Look Like

The goal of gum contouring at LA Dental Clinic is not a dramatically altered gumline. It is a gumline that is symmetrical, sits at the correct height relative to each tooth, and does not draw attention to itself. When the gumline is right, the teeth look proportionate, the smile looks balanced, and any restorations placed on those teeth appear natural.

LA Dental Clinic treats patients from across Los Angeles, including those in public-facing roles where a smile that reads as natural on camera is not optional. Gum contouring is often the step that makes the difference between a cosmetic result that looks slightly off and one that looks completely right. It is also the step most likely to be skipped by practices that do not plan cosmetic work holistically.
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Years of experience

THE PATIENT EXPERIENCE

Your Visit at LA Dental Clinic

Every appointment at LA Dental Clinic in Los Angeles is designed with the same level of patient comfort, regardless of which treatment brings you in.

Free Underground Parking

Validated parking on site at 3377 Wilshire Blvd. Bring your ticket to the front desk. A genuine rarity on this stretch of Los Angeles

Television Above Every Chair

Watch Netflix or stream from your phone during your appointment. Every treatment chair at LA Dental Clinic has an overhead screen.

Aromatherapy and Eye Massagers

Every operatory is equipped with aromatherapy and eye massagers. Tea, coffee, and water are available throughout your visit.

HAPPY CLIENT REVIEWS

See Feedback From Patients Who Sat in Our Chair.

Zocdoc
"Terrific dentist!!! Friendly, compassionate and knowledgeable. She and her staff made me feel cared for and valued as a patient. I need tons of dental work and I didn't feel judged for having "bad teeth". For the first time in a long time I'm confident that I have a dentist that actually cares about me as a person first and patient second. I am confident that Dr. Nasiry will help to restore the smile I lost years ago. I can't thank her enough"
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Christina W.
Yelp
"I came in for a dental emergency and they took care of me day of! They were also so fast which I appreciate. The room had a tv, the staff were nice, and I will be coming back.

It was definitely pricey as I do not have dental insurance, but you get what you pay for."
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Zaya O.
Zocdoc
"Absolutely wonderful! I hadn't been to the dentist in a few years, and everyone made sure I got the treatment I needed without being judgemental or condescending about it. The hygienist is kind and talkative, and everyone was very cognizant of my needs and made sure I wasn't in pain. Dr. Nasiry is great, and I completely trust her with my teeth and their future care! (They are also very upfront and honest about pricing, which is very appreciated.)"
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Stefanie W.
Google
"Was in the Los Angeles area for business, and my veneer came off. Not only did they answer my call at 3am but got me into see a dentist in between their already booked schedule. Once I arrived I was greeted by a very kind receptionist and a clean waiting room. I was taken back by Jose, very nice and diligent tech and then I got to meet my dentist. Like an angel for my teeth. The doctor was friendly, gentle and incredibly knowledgeable. She got me fixed up and helped me find dentist back in phx to continue my care. I am making plans to travel back to Los Angeles to see LA Dental again! Amazing!"
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Samantha Hart
Google
"The team at LA Dental is truly exceptional — always kind, thorough, and professional. Every time I come in for an appointment, the front desk staff greets me with warmth and genuine care. They’re friendly, knowledgeable, and make the check-in process effortless.

Scheduling appointments is always easy and convenient, and I really appreciate how accommodating they are when it comes to finding available times.

Dr. Nasiry, Dr. Khandan, and their entire team go above and beyond to ensure every visit is comfortable and that I fully understand my treatment options. They’re detailed, patient, and consistently deliver excellent care.

I’m very grateful to have found such a trustworthy and caring dental office — I highly recommend LA Dental to anyone looking for a team that truly values their patients"
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Roshawn Davis
Google
"Thank you so much! Today was my first visit, and I’ve already received exceptional service. You all are kind, thorough, and make the whole experience comfortable. I truly appreciate the care and professionalism, and I’m looking forward to my smile upgrade. From the phone appointment to the receptionist, hygienist, and dentist, every part of the experience was top-tier. Happy to share feedback and support your business!"
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Jay K.
Yelp
"This is my first time here at LA Dental Clinic and I love how caring, relatable, professional, and knowledgeable Dr. Golara, Sara, Cynthia, and Gloria are. They let me know everything that is being done for my son's teeth. They were patience with him by ensuring that he understands what they are doing, the different instruments being used, how they are doing the x-rays, and etc. The office is very clean and they have parking, which is always a plus. Thank you for your help with my son and getting his perfect smile. The prices are very reasonable and not pressured into anything you do not feel comfortable doing. I highly recommend LA Dental Clinic to everyone."
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Nicolle D..
Yelp
"I've been going to L.A. Dental for almost 15 years and I have never been disappointed. I've had everything done from major surgery to a simple cleaning and I'm always very pleased with the outcome.

Dr. Nasiry and her staff are very supportive and friendly and their office is always nice and clean.

The staff at L.A. Dental are experts in the field of dentistry and I highly recommend them."
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Ron K.
Zocdoc
"The entire team is absolutely amazing! Everyone is friendly and thorough, and the entire team has incredible bedside manner. It’s evident after one visit that this team truly cares about their patients. Highly recommend!"
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Bellesa M.
Google
"Dr. Azy, Jesus and Sara completely changed how I feel about my smile. I used to hide it and now I catch myself smiling more without even thinking. It feels so good to finally love it.

The composite bonding experience felt more like self care than a scary dental visit and that says everything. So grateful I found this place! They really helped me feel like myself again."
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Bri MM.
Zocdoc
"My first visit at Dr. Nasiry was excellent. The staff was welcoming friendly and funny. They eased my nerves. Once I was seated they had music playing which was new but pleasant. The doctor was easy to talk to and she listen to all my concerns. She makes you feel like you are her number one priority. Ive had braces put it and I was terrified but they all helped me get through it. I have a favorite assistant who goes above and beyond to make sure you are ok and getting the best treatedment. This place is great and im glad I made the decision to make them my permanent dental family."
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Jennifer M.

COMMON QUESTIONS

Frequently Asked Questions

What is gum contouring and is it a surgical procedure?
Gum contouring is a cosmetic dental procedure that removes and reshapes excess or uneven gum tissue to expose more of the natural tooth crown and create a more balanced gumline. It is performed under local anaesthesia and does not require general sedation or a hospital visit. At LA Dental Clinic, gum contouring is an in-office procedure typically completed in a single appointment. It is considered a minor surgical procedure in clinical terms, but most patients find it straightforward and manageable.
What is a gummy smile and can gum contouring fix it?
A gummy smile is a term used to describe a smile where a significant amount of gum tissue is visible above the upper teeth when smiling. This can occur because of excess gum tissue that covers too much of the clinical crown, because the teeth have not fully erupted, or because of how the upper lip moves when smiling. Where the cause is excess or low-sitting gum tissue, gum contouring at LA Dental Clinic can make the gums less visible and expose more of the natural tooth, producing a more proportionate smile.
Does gum contouring hurt?
The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, so you should not feel pain during the treatment. Afterwards, some soreness, tenderness, and minor swelling are normal and typically settle within a week or so. LA Dental Clinic provides post-operative care instructions to manage discomfort and support healing. Most patients describe the recovery as mild and manageable with standard over-the-counter pain relief.
How long does recovery take?
Most patients find the gum tissue heals well within one to two weeks following gum contouring. The area may feel sensitive for a few days, and soft foods are advisable during the initial healing period. A follow-up appointment at LA Dental Clinic is scheduled to assess healing and confirm the final result. Where gum contouring is being done as preparation for veneers or composite bonding, subsequent cosmetic treatments are typically scheduled after the gum tissue has fully healed.
Should I get gum contouring before or after veneers?
Before. If veneers or composite bonding are being planned as part of the same smile makeover, gum contouring is performed first. The gumline position determines where the margin of the veneer or bonding will sit, so the cosmetic restoration needs to be designed and placed after the gumline is in its final position. At LA Dental Clinic, the full treatment sequence is planned at the initial consultation so every stage is correctly ordered before any treatment begins.
Is gum contouring permanent?
In most cases, yes. Once gum tissue has been removed and has healed, it does not typically grow back to its original position. The result is considered permanent in the vast majority of cases. Factors that can affect long-term stability include changes in gum health, such as gum disease, which can cause the gumline to recede or swell. Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular professional cleaning appointments at LA Dental Clinic is the best way to protect the long-term result.
Can gum contouring be combined with other cosmetic treatments?
Yes, and at LA Dental Clinic it most often is. Gum contouring is frequently planned as part of a broader smile makeover that may include veneers, composite bonding, or teeth whitening. The gumline is one of the key elements of smile design, so addressing it in the same treatment plan as other cosmetic work produces a more cohesive and natural-looking final result. The sequence of treatments is planned carefully so gum healing is complete before any restorations are placed
Is gum contouring a good option for patients who need a natural result on camera or in public?
Yes. A gummy smile or an uneven gumline is one of the cosmetic concerns that becomes more noticeable under close scrutiny, whether in high-resolution photography, on camera, or in person. Gum contouring addresses the issue at its root rather than masking it with restorations. LA Dental Clinic plans every cosmetic treatment around a result that looks natural in all lighting and at all distances, and gum contouring is part of that planning when the gumline is a factor.
How do I know if I need gum contouring or something else?
The best way to determine this is a consultation at LA Dental Clinic. During a cosmetic assessment, the doctors evaluate the gumline position in relation to the teeth and the overall smile design. Some patients who think they need teeth whitening or veneers actually have a gumline issue that, once addressed, changes how the entire smile looks. Others who inquire about gum contouring may be better served by Invisalign to reposition the teeth first. The right recommendation depends on the individual clinical situation.

Visit our clinic

3377 Wilshire Blvd #202, Los Angeles, CA, 90010

Serving Los Angeles

LA Dental Clinic is located at 3377 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 202, in Koreatown, minutes from the 10 and 110 freeways and on the Metro Purple Line. The practice provides gum contouring as part of its cosmetic dentistry services for patients from across the greater Los Angeles area, including Silver Lake, Los Feliz, Echo Park, Hancock Park, and Downtown LA. Free validated parking is available on site.
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Book Your Free Gum Contouring Consultation

LA Dental Clinic offers gum contouring in Los Angeles as part of a cosmetic smile design led by UCLA faculty. A balanced, natural gumline is the foundation of every great smile makeover. Book a free consultation in person or virtually.
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5.0
500+ reviews on Google
Areas served:
Koreatown | Wilshire Center | Mid-Wilshire | Downtown Los Angeles | Westlake | Pico-Union | Hancock Park | East Hollywood | Larchmont | Hollywood | Los Feliz | Silver Lake | Echo Park | Miracle Mile | Beverly Grove | Beverly Hills
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Each week, Dr. Arezoo and Dr. Azy answer the questions patients ask most, covering everything from root canals and dental implants to the realities of a smile makeover and what it actually takes to get one right. More than forty episodes since 2024, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube Music.