Gum Lifts

Close up of a brunette woman with bright brown eyes slightly tilting her head smiling

When you think about a beautiful smile, you probably picture straight, white teeth. But here’s the thing—your gums play a major role in how your smile looks. If your teeth seem “short,” or if you notice more gum than enamel when you grin, a gum lift might be the perfect solution.

At Gentle Dental, we help patients reshape and refine their smiles with precise, gentle gum contouring in Topsham ME and Biddeford ME. Whether you’re going for a cosmetic upgrade or need treatment for gum overgrowth, we’re here to help you smile with confidence.


What Is A Gum Lift?

A gum lift, also known as gingival contouring or crown lengthening, is a cosmetic dental procedure that reshapes the gumline. The goal? To remove excess gum tissue and reveal more of your natural tooth structure. It’s a quick and effective way to create a more balanced, even smile, especially for people who feel their teeth look too small or “gummy.”

This simple procedure can dramatically enhance your smile without the need for orthodontics or veneers.


Why Do People Get Gum Lifts?

There are a few common reasons patients consider a gum lift:

Gummy smile – Too much gum tissue showing when you smile

Uneven gumline – Gums that appear higher or lower in certain areas

Teeth look too short – When the gum covers part of the tooth structure

Restorative needs – To prepare the area for a crown or filling

Gum overgrowth – Caused by genetics, medications, or poor oral hygiene

Sometimes it's cosmetic, other times it’s functional—but either way, the outcome is a smile that feels more “you.”


What To Expect During A Gum Lift Procedure

Most gum lifts are performed in a single visit right here in our office. We’ll walk you through every step, but here’s a basic idea of how it works:

  1. Local Anesthesia
    We numb the area so you’re completely comfortable throughout the procedure.
  2. Gum Reshaping
    Using precise tools or a soft tissue laser, we carefully remove excess gum tissue and sculpt a symmetrical gumline.
  3. Quick Recovery
    You may experience mild tenderness or swelling for a few days, but most patients return to normal activities right away.

If you're prepping for a crown or filling, this process may be combined with other treatments for the best results.


Is A Gum Lift Right For You?

A gum lift might be a great fit if you:

  • Feel self-conscious about your gum-to-tooth ratio
  • Are prepping for cosmetic or restorative work
  • Have healthy gums and teeth overall
  • Want a fast, minimally invasive way to enhance your smile

We’ll evaluate your gums, take detailed images, and create a customized treatment plan that aligns with your goals.


Benefits Of Gum Lifts

There’s more to this procedure than aesthetics. Here’s what you’ll gain:

  • Improved smile balance and symmetry
  • Enhanced confidence in photos or conversation
  • Better access for brushing and flossing
  • Reduced risk of plaque buildup under excess gum tissue
  • A clean foundation for crowns, veneers, or other restorations

It’s a small change that can make a big impact—both visually and functionally.


Aftercare Tips For Gum Lift Recovery

Healing is usually quick and straightforward, especially if you follow a few simple steps:

  • Stick to soft foods for a few days
  • Avoid spicy or crunchy foods that may irritate the area
  • Keep up with gentle brushing and flossing
  • Rinse with a saltwater solution or any rinse we prescribe
  • Take over-the-counter pain relief if needed

We’ll check in with you to make sure everything’s healing properly, and you’ll be flashing that refreshed smile in no time.


Let’s Redesign Your Smile—One Gumline At A Time

If your gums are making your smile feel off, a gum lift can restore harmony and confidence with a treatment that’s quick, safe, and surprisingly simple. At Gentle Dental, with locations in Topsham ME and Biddeford ME, we’ll guide you through the entire process and deliver results that feel natural, not overdone.

Ready to learn more about gum lifts? Contact us today to schedule your consultation. We’ll help you decide if this small adjustment is the key to unlocking your best smile.