Pinhole®: The Breakthrough Technique for Gum Rejuvenation

Our practice is proud to offer the Chao Pinhole® Technique, a revolutionary alternative treatment for gingival (gum) recession. Pinhole gives us another method to correct receding gums and help keep them from getting worse. It’s a minimally invasive, proven procedure that can often be accomplished in one visit. We can reshape gum tissue around your tooth or teeth with little trauma or even swelling occurring.

How Does Pinhole Work?

Special dental instruments allow us to create tiny pinhole-sized entry points in healthy gum tissue. The tissue is gentled released to cover the recessed areas, also known as “pockets.” We then use tiny collagen strips to help stabilize the gums. The tiny pinhole area often heals overnight. Additional highlights of this popular treatment include that it:

  • Is suture-free and scalpel-free
  • Offers a nearly instant aesthetic enhancement
  • Allows for fast recovery
  • Can be performed with little, if any discomfort

What is Gum Recession?

Gingival (gum) recession is when more of the root area becomes exposed. The big problem with receding gums is that bacteria can more easily form between the gum and your teeth, causing decay and infection. If the gum recession is not addressed, it can ultimately lead to tooth loss. The recession is often a gradual process which you may not even be aware you’re experiencing until you notice exposed root surfaces or sensitivity.

Why Do Gums Recede in the First Place?

Gum recession is very common. While poor oral hygiene can be a culprit, and gum recession can be a complication of gum disease, we find that many patients, despite good at-home dental hygiene maintenance, come in exhibiting gum recession. In these instances, we can almost always point to aggressive brushing techniques over the years, or maybe use of a hard-bristled toothbrush. Other gum recession triggers can include:

  • Teeth grinding
  • Misaligned teeth
  • Previous orthodontic treatment
  • Smoking
  • Natural aging process
  • Genetic predisposition
  • Poorly controlled diabetes

What Gum Recession Treatment is Right for Me?

As in the case of all of our procedures, we examine our patients carefully to determine the best recession treatment for your individual situation. There are various costs, risks, advantages and timelines involved with each procedure, which we can discuss. In some instances, traditional root coverage gum grafts may be suggested instead of Pinhole. Many of our treatment options do not require taking tissue from the palate (roof of the mouth) which is a reason many people avoid treatment.

The key is that we can often not only reverse the damage from gingival recession but actually regenerate lost bone support. If you have been told or suspect gum recession, contact us for a consultation. No referral is required!