Unfortunately, gum recession is a common condition, especially in patients over the age of 65. Several methods of treating gum recession exist, including the Pinhole Surgical Technique. In this article, we discuss the causes and symptoms of gum recession and the benefits of this treatment method.

 

Understanding Gum Recession

Gum recession is a condition signified by the gum tissue line becoming lower and exposing part of the teeth’s roots. In addition to changing the way your smile looks, this condition is dangerous because it makes the teeth more sensitive and vulnerable to bacteria and decay, undermines the teeth’s support, and can result in tooth loss. 

Gum recession can affect all the teeth in the mouth or only one or several teeth. The following symptoms can indicate the condition:

• Painful gums, especially along the gum line
• Gum and teeth sensitivity to changes in temperature of foods and drinks
• Pain, discomfort, or sensitivity when flossing and brushing
• Pain or sensitivity during professional dental cleanings
• Teeth that became visibly longer
• Exposed teeth roots 
• Loose teeth

 

Why Do We Get Gum Recession?

There are several reasons for gum recession. The most common cause is gum disease—the chronic infection of the gum tissue, typically caused by insufficient oral hygiene. However, an overly abrasive toothbrush, bruxism, inappropriate orthodontic treatment, smoking, piercings in the mouth, certain illnesses, and genetic traits can also result in gum recession.

Regardless of the cause, gum recession will not improve on its own and requires immediate medical attention and treatment to avoid tooth loss. The sooner the treatment starts, the better the chances are to stop the progression of the condition.

 

What Is Pinhole Surgical Technique?

The Pinhole Surgical Technique is a modern procedure for treating gum recession. This method allows the addition of collagen to the gums in a comfortable and minimally invasive way. It helps stop the progression of gum recession and decreases the risk of tooth decay and tooth loss that can result from it. 

 

Benefits of the Pinhole Surgical Technique

The Pinhole Surgical Technique is generally considered a simple and quick solution for the issue of receding gums. The main benefits of this method include:

 

The Pinhole Surgical Technique Is Minimally Invasive

The procedure is minimally invasive, meaning that typically, only a small pinhole (hence the name) is created in the receding gum tissue. This pinhole does not require stitching and usually heals very fast. It can be gone as soon as the next day after the procedure. 

In comparison, bone grafting—another common method of treating receding gums—is a surgical procedure that involves incisions in the gums, graft placement underneath the gums, and stitching. Additionally, the graft might also be sourced from the patient’s own tissue from other parts of the mouth, which creates additional trauma.

 

The Pinhole Surgical Technique Requires Just One Dental Appointment

In most cases, the procedure can be done in just one dental visit, which typically lasts one to two hours. Specifically, multiple areas of receding gums can be treated at once. In comparison, bone grafting might require several visits.

 

The Pinhole Surgical Technique Has a Short Recovery Period

No swelling, bleeding, or pain is associated with The Pinhole Surgical Technique. The recovery process usually takes as little as one day. Patients can return to their normal daily activities immediately after the procedure and eat normally by the end of the first day. The healing process after bone grafting, on the other hand, can take up to a month or longer in some cases.

 

The Pinhole Surgical Technique Has a Smaller Chance of Infection

Compared to the invasive bone grafting procedure, The Pinhole Surgical Technique has a much lower risk of developing an infection due to the minor size of the holes created in the mouth during the procedure.

 

The Pinhole Surgical Technique Is Effective

The Pinhole Surgical Technique is considered a permanent solution for gum recession. Additionally, most patients notice improved gumline immediately after the procedure.

 

Make an Appointment Today

If you notice any signs of gum recession or gum disease, do not hesitate to make an appointment with a periodontal dentist at LA Wilshire Perio today. Our dental specialists are equipped with modern tools and methods and will help you choose the proper treatment to restore your oral health. We are looking forward to your visit to our dental office.