
Gum Contouring with Your Meridian Periodontist
Artfully Reshape Your Gum Line for a More Attractive Smile
Your gums frame your smile. If you have excess gum tissue (a "gummy smile") or an uneven gum line, it can detract from your appearance. As a board-certified periodontist in Meridian, MS, Dr. J. Eric Herrington, is a gum specialist who can artfully reshape your gum line with surgical gum contouring.
When considering a periodontist vs. a general dentist for this procedure, a specialist offers unparalleled expertise in the intricate tissues of the gums, ensuring a safe and predictable outcome.

Candidates for Cosmetic Gum Contouring
While often used as part of periodontitis treatment, gum contouring offers significant cosmetic benefits. The two leading aesthetic concerns for patients are a “gummy smile” and an uneven or ragged gum line, which can result from genetics or even aggressive brushing.
Gum contouring corrects these issues by reshaping the gum line to lengthen the appearance of the teeth. For many, this procedure can deliver dramatic improvements at a lower cost than alternatives like porcelain veneers.
Benefits of seeing a Meridian gum specialist for this procedure include:
- A safe procedure performed by a board-certified periodontist
- Low risk for complications
- Dramatic, fully customizable cosmetic results
- An attractive, balanced, and symmetrical smile
- Improved ability to clean teeth, helping to prevent future gum disease
Gum contouring allows Dr. Herrington to make minor changes to your gums that deliver drastic cosmetic results, boosting your confidence.
The Laser Gum Contouring Procedure
Dr. Herrington takes a conservative approach, removing only the smallest amount of gum tissue necessary to achieve your goals. Before the procedure, you must be in good overall health and free from active gum disease.
The procedure begins with a local anesthetic. For anxious patients, our Meridian practice offers sedation dentistry to ensure complete comfort.
Dr. Herrington then uses advanced laser periodontal therapy technology to precisely remove excess gum tissue according to your custom cosmetic plan. This laser technique minimizes bleeding and discomfort, leading to a quicker recovery and a lower risk of complications compared to traditional methods. Most patients fully recover in about a week to 10 days.
Schedule Your Consultation with a Meridian Gum Specialist
If you're unhappy with your gummy smile or uneven gums, Dr. Herrington can create a custom plan to help you achieve your cosmetic goals. To schedule your appointment with our top periodontist in Meridian, please contact our office online or call (601) 482-6938.