Final answer:
Gingivectomy or gum contouring is the surgical procedure that reshapes and contours the gingival tissue, aimed at improving the gum line or treating gum diseases.
Step-by-step explanation:
The surgical procedure that involves the reshaping and contouring of the gingival tissue is known as gingivectomy or gum contouring. This procedure is often performed to improve the aesthetics of the gum line, to treat gum diseases, or to prepare the teeth for further dental work. It involves the careful removal or reshaping of the gingivae (the gums), which are the soft tissues that line the alveolar processes and surround the necks of the teeth. The teeth are secured in their sockets by the alveolar processes of the maxilla and the mandible, and held in place by the periodontal ligament, which is a connective tissue. Gingivectomy must be performed by a dental professional trained in this type of surgery to ensure proper healing and alignment of the gums.