Gum Contouring in Turkey: Laser Treatment for a Gummy Smile & 2026 Costs
A beautiful smile is often described as the universal language of confidence. However, when you look in the mirror, do you see your teeth, or do you see mostly gums? This is what we call a “Gummy Smile,” and for many of our international patients visiting HCT Dental Clinic in Istanbul and Antalya, it is a major source of insecurity.
While most people focus on white teeth, the gums act as the “frame” for your smile. Just as a masterpiece painting needs a proportionate frame to look its best, your teeth need balanced gums to shine. If your gum line is uneven or covers too much of your enamel, your teeth may look short, square, or worn down—even if they are perfectly healthy.
Gum Contouring (also known as Gingivectomy or Gum Reshaping) is the subtle art of correcting this balance. In this 2026 guide, we will explore how we use advanced Laser Dentistry to reshape your smile painlessly, often in a single visit, and how you can save significantly compared to UK or US prices.
What Is Gum Contouring (Gingivectomy)?
Gum contouring is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure designed to reshape the gum line. The goal is to expose more of the natural tooth structure or to even out an asymmetrical gum line.
At HCT Dental Clinic, we move beyond traditional scalpels. We utilize advanced Diode Lasers or Biolase technology to gently vaporize excess gum tissue. This allows us to:
- Lengthen the Teeth: Solving the “short tooth” syndrome.
- Create Symmetry: Ensuring the gum arc height is consistent across your smile.
- Prepare for Veneers: Creating the perfect canvas before a Hollywood Smile makeover.
Patient’s Voice: A common fear we hear is, “Will it bleed a lot, and will I need stitches?” Because we use high-tech lasers, the answer is generally no. The laser cauterizes (seals) the tissue instantly as it shapes, meaning there is minimal bleeding and often no need for sutures.
Why "Pink Aesthetics" Matter in a Smile Makeover
In professional dentistry, we talk about “White Aesthetics” (the teeth) and “Pink Aesthetics” (the gums). A Smile Makeover is not complete if these two elements do not work in harmony.
Here is how gum contouring elevates your results:
- Proportion & Balance: By removing excess tissue, we can instantly make your teeth appear longer and more elegant without touching the tooth structure itself.
- Framing: Properly shaped gums give your smile a polished, intentional look.
- Foundation for Restorations: If you are planning to get crowns or veneers, gum contouring is often a necessary first step to ensure the new teeth sit naturally at the gum line.
💡 Expert Insight: Laser vs. Traditional Surgery
"Precision is the key to a natural look."
In the past, gum surgery required scalpels and a recovery period of weeks. Today, using soft tissue lasers, we can sculpt the gum line with millimeter precision. This reduces the risk of infection and drastically speeds up healing. Most of our patients in Antalya can return to their holiday activities the very next day with only minor dietary restrictions.
— Prof. Dr. MÜJDE SEVİMAY, Head Dentist & Prosthodontics Professor
Who Is a Candidate? (And Who Is Not?)
Gum contouring is excellent for cosmetic improvements, but your oral health comes first. You may be a good candidate if:
- You have a “gummy smile” (excessive gingival display).
- Your gum line is uneven (one tooth looks longer than the other).
- Your teeth appear too small or square.
Important Contraindication: You cannot have gum contouring if you have active Gum Disease (Periodontitis). The gums must be healthy and pink, not red or swollen. If you have gum disease, we must treat the infection first via Gum Treatments before proceeding with any cosmetic work.
Cost Analysis: Turkey vs. UK/USA
Cosmetic procedures like gum contouring are rarely covered by insurance in the UK or USA, as they are considered “elective.” This makes the price difference in Turkey a significant factor.
At HCT Dental Clinic, we offer premium laser gum contouring starting at just $300 (approx. £240), whereas the same laser treatment in the West can cost upwards of $2,000.
| Treatment | Avg. Cost in UK/USA | HCT Clinic Turkey Cost (2026) | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laser Gum Contouring (Per Arch) | $1,500 - $3,000 | $300 - $500 | ~85% |
| Gingivectomy (Per Tooth) | $300 - $500 | $50 - $100 | ~80% |
| Consultation & 3D Imaging | $200 - $400 | FREE | 100% |
Aftercare: Healing After Laser Treatment
Recovery is typically quick and manageable. To ensure the best results:
- First 24 Hours: Eat soft, cool foods (yogurt, ice cream). Avoid spicy or acidic foods that might sting.
- Hygiene: Be very gentle when brushing near the gum line. We may prescribe a special mouthwash.
- Don’t Worry: Minor sensitivity is normal for a few days as the gums heal into their new shape.
Are you ready to fix your gummy smile? Contact us today for a free virtual assessment. Send us a photo of your smile, and our doctors in Istanbul or Antalya will let you know if gum contouring is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Legal Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.