Gum recession can significantly impact your oral health, increasing the risk of cavities and other dental issues. If left untreated, it may lead to tooth and bone loss. While a traditional gum graft is often used for advanced recession, our practice offers a modern and comfortable alternative to repair receding gums: pinhole treatment.
Comparing Gum Graft & Pinhole Procedures
A traditional gum graft involves removing soft tissue from the roof of your mouth and stitching it to the recessed areas of your gums.
In contrast, we can use the Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique, a less invasive alternative. This method involves making a tiny hole in the gums, then using specialized tools to gently reposition the tissue to cover exposed tooth roots. The tissue is then secured with collagen fibers.
Recognizing Gum Recession
If your teeth appear longer or you suspect gum recession, contact us at 978-278-1760. Your dentist will conduct a thorough examination and determine if treatment is necessary. Early-stage gum recession can often be managed with a deep cleaning.
Advantages of Using the Pinhole Procedure
- Faster Treatment – Known as the “lunchtime gum lift,” the Chao technique can usually be completed within an hour, much faster than a traditional graft.
- Minimal Discomfort – This method involves no cutting or stitching, and patients typically only need local anesthesia to remain comfortable during the procedure.
- Natural Appearance – Unlike grafts, which may use tissue that doesn’t match your gums and looks white during healing, the pinhole technique repositions your own gum tissue for a completely natural look.
- Easy Recovery – With minimal pain, swelling, and a lower risk of infection, you can return to your normal activities immediately. You can resume your regular diet within a day or two, unlike the week or two of recovery and soft food diet required after a gum graft.
At our practice, we prioritize convenient and comfortable treatments for our patients. For gum recession, that means offering the advanced pinhole gum treatment.
If you need to repair receding gums, call us today at 978-278-1760 to schedule a consultation in Peabody, MA.