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Pinhole® Surgical Technique and Gum Recession Treatment

Home/ /Pinhole® Surgical Technique and Gum Recession Treatment

Performed by Certified Pinhole Provider – Dr. Erez Nosrati

Gum recession is a serious concern that can cause a host of problems. Our experienced periodontist uses an advanced treatment developed and patented by Dr. John Chao called Pinhole Surgical Technique, which can help patients restore the gumline without the need for major surgery or sutures. If you believe you may have gum recession, or a dentist has informed you of this concern, we can help you enjoy a healthy, beautiful smile again.

What Is Pinhole® Gum Surgery?

Also known as gum recession treatment, pinhole surgery, PST, and pinhole gum rejuvenation, the Pinhole Surgical Technique is a minimally invasive gum restoration service that lifts and repositions the recessed gums into a healthier location on the teeth. This method uses a tiny pinhole made within the gum of the affected tooth, reducing recovery and discomfort for the patient while enhancing the outcome.

What Causes Gum Recession?

Gum recession is defined as the exposure of the tooth roots caused by a receding gumline. In a healthy mouth, the gumline should serve as a protective cover for the base of the teeth; however, untreated bacteria buildup causes the gums to erode, leaving the tooth roots vulnerable to potential infection. There are several reasons why the gums may recede from their original position at the base of the teeth, including:

  • Smoking and tobacco use
  • A lack of daily oral hygiene, such as brushing, flossing, and rinsing
  • Accumulating plaque and tartar in the mouth
  • Brushing your teeth too aggressively
  • Misalignment or irregular positioning of the teeth
  • Trauma or oral injuries

When the gums pull away from the teeth, this is usually the result of gum disease. However, gum recession can also be caused by the natural effects of the aging process and individuals who are 65 and older can be more susceptible to gum disease than other patients. Genetics also play a role, as men and women who are predisposed to thin gum tissue may experience receding gums.

What Are the Benefits of Pinhole® Surgery?

With its multitude of benefits compared with traditional gum recession surgery, pinhole surgery provides some clear advantages, including:

  • Minimal post-operative discomfort
  • Expedited recovery experience
  • No sutures
  • No cutting, scalpels, or invasive surgical techniques
  • No donor tissue needed

Additionally, pinhole surgery can achieve a lasting, natural-looking outcome just the same as can be obtained with traditional and more aggressive methods.

Who is a Candidate for Gum Recession Treatment?

Gum recession treatment may be necessary if your teeth are at greater risk of developing pain, a cavity, or an infection due to your eroding gumline. Although not all cases of gum disease require treatment from a dentist, patients affected by moderate to severe gum recession will need professional care to restore clean, healthy gums. You may consider seeking treatment for gum recession if you experience symptoms like:

  • Pain, sensitivity, or discomfort near the gumline
  • Loose or shifting teeth
  • Sensitivity to extreme temperatures, such as hot or cold food/drinks
  • Bleeding and tenderness when brushing or flossing your teeth

Receding tissue in the gumline will never regenerate on its own, so it’s imperative that you seek treatment from a qualified dentist to restore protection for your teeth if you notice the gums pulling away. Dr. Erez Nosrati, our periodontist and PST-certified dentist, can examine the state of your teeth and gums to develop an appropriate treatment plan for your needs.

How Is the Pinhole® Surgical Technique Performed?

A very small pinhole is created within the soft tissue of the gums. Through this tiny hole, small instruments can be placed and used to loosen, expand, lift, and redrape the gumline in the most advantageous position on the tooth, covering the root. Once relocated, collagen strips are used to stabilize the gums. This approach can be applied to as many teeth as needed to achieve complete gum rejuvenation. As a result of this innovative technique, no sutures are needed, no invasive surgical methods are employed, and the pinhole can heal quickly, often overnight.

What Should I Expect After Pinhole® Surgery?

Since no sutures are needed, recovery is usually minimal and swift. Most patients are able to eat normally within a few hours of their procedure and the pinhole created during treatment often heals the same day or overnight. We will monitor your progress and follow-up on your care to ensure the best possible outcome. If you have any questions, please reach out to our team.

Who Should Perform Pinhole® Surgery?

Gum recession treatment should only be performed by a highly qualified periodontist who is a certified provider in the Pinhole Surgical Technique. Dr. Erez Nosrati has unique training and specialized experience in surgical periodontics that make him well-equipped to perform pinhole gum rejuvenation. Dr. Nosrati has spent over 15 years specializing in periodontics and serves as a diplomate to the American Board of Periodontology, as well as an Assistant Professor of Periodontics at Loma Linda University School of Dentistry. Needless to say, Dr. Nosrati is certified to perform the Pinhole Surgical Technique and has the skills and experience necessary to safely reposition the gums into a healthier location.

How Much Does Pinhole® Surgery Cost?

The price of Pinhole Surgical Technique for gum recession at our practice depends on the unique details of each patient’s treatment plan and we will review the entire cost of your treatment plan with you before beginning. Your care, comfort, and results are our highest priorities, and as a service to our patients, we work with reputable financers should you prefer a payment plan. We believe everyone deserves the healthiest mouth and the most beautiful smile they can achieve, so please don’t hesitate to ask any questions during your initial consultation.

Tips to Prevent Gum Recession

Gum recession is a very common dental concern that affects nearly 88 percent of people. While the problem is relatively widespread, it can be very simple to both treat and prevent gum recession for the long-term future. In general, the likelihood of developing gum recession is reduced when patients:

  • Practice good, consistent daily oral hygiene: Simple habits such as twice-daily brushing and flossing can go a long way in minimizing bacteria buildup along your teeth and gums.
  • Brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush: Since brushing your teeth too hard can contribute to the erosion of gum tissue, we recommend gently cleaning your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove food and surface stains.
  • Stop smoking and chewing tobacco: Tobacco use and smoking can be detrimental to your oral health, significantly increasing the risk of developing bacteria, disease, and infections along the gumline.
  • Attend your semi-annual dental cleanings and examinations: Professional dental cleanings are the only way to remove the decay, plaque, and tartar that brushing and flossing cannot. Keeping up with your regular dental appointments can help reduce the harmful bacteria buildup that often leads to gum recession.

For more information on how pinhole surgery can help you correct gum recession, contact Scripps Center for Dental Care to schedule a consultation with our extensively trained periodontist.