Pinhole Surgical Technique is a minimally invasive treatment for gum recession that repositions existing gum tissue over exposed tooth roots without traditional grafting, incisions, or sutures.
A Minimally Invasive Treatment for Receding Gums
When gums recede, the roots of the teeth become exposed. This can make teeth appear longer, contribute to sensitivity, and leave the exposed root surfaces more vulnerable to decay and further tissue loss.
Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST) is designed to restore coverage over exposed roots using the gum tissue already surrounding the teeth in combination with collagen material. Rather than removing tissue from the roof of the mouth and grafting it over the area of recession, a small opening is created in the gum. Specialized instruments are then used to gently loosen and reposition the existing tissue over the exposed roots using collagen.
At Periodontal Associates, Dr. Chris Brett offers Pinhole Surgical Technique for patients who are appropriate candidates for this approach.
Who Is a Candidate for Pinhole Gum Surgery?
Pinhole Surgical Technique can be an effective treatment for many patients with gum recession, but it is not appropriate for every type of recession.
During a periodontal evaluation, Dr. Brett will assess the amount and location of recession, the condition and thickness of the existing gum tissue, the health of the teeth and supporting bone, and other factors that may affect the stability of the result.
Pinhole treatment may be considered when:
- One or more teeth have visible gum recession
- Recession is causing sensitivity
- Recession is an esthetic concern
- Several teeth require root coverage
- There is enough healthy tissue to reposition over the exposed roots
If another approach would provide a more predictable result, traditional gum grafting may be recommended instead.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Pinhole Surgical Technique is carefully planned based on the location and extent of your gum recession. The procedure is minimally invasive and typically completed in a single visit. Here’s what you can expect:
- Consultation and planning: Dr. Brett evaluates your gum recession, oral health, and supporting tissues to determine which areas can be treated with the Pinhole technique.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia keeps you painless throughout the procedure with sedation options available to ensure comfort.
- Tissue repositioning: A small opening is created in the gum tissue, allowing specialized instruments to gently loosen and reposition the gums over the exposed tooth roots.
- Tissue stabilization: Collagen material is placed beneath the repositioned tissue to help stabilize and support the gumline as it heals.
Because this technique uses your existing gum tissue, there is no need to remove tissue from the roof of the mouth and no second surgical site to heal.
Healing and Aftercare
The gum tissue needs time to stabilize in its new position. During early healing:
- Avoid brushing or flossing the treated areas until instructed.
- Do not touch the gums or pull on the lip or cheek to look at the treated area.
- Eat soft foods and avoid biting directly with the treated teeth.
- Attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing.
Once the tissue has healed, gentle oral hygiene and regular periodontal care can help maintain the results.
Pinhole Surgery vs. Traditional Gum Grafting
Both Pinhole Surgical Technique and traditional gum grafting are used to cover exposed tooth roots and treat gum recession, but they accomplish this differently.
Traditional gum grafting typically adds new tissue to an area where the gums have receded. Depending on the technique, this tissue may be taken from the palate or obtained from another grafting source.
Pinhole Surgical Technique does not add a traditional tissue graft. Instead, the existing gum tissue is loosened and repositioned with collagen over the exposed roots through a small entry point.
Why Patients Choose Periodontal Associates
For nearly 50 years, Periodontal Associates has provided specialized periodontal care in Centennial and Aurora, CO.
Our team provides:
- Specialized expertise in treating gum recession and exposed tooth roots
- Pinhole Surgical Technique performed by Dr. Chris Brett
- Comprehensive evaluations to determine the right approach for each area of recession
- Advanced treatment options, including traditional gum grafting when appropriate
As a privately owned periodontal practice, we focus on personalized care and treatment recommendations based on each patient’s long-term oral health.
Insurance and Financing
Periodontal Associates accepts most major dental insurance plans and will verify your benefits before your treatment to minimize surprises. Our team provides estimates in advance and helps you understand your coverage.
For any costs not covered by insurance, we offer financing options through CareCredit and Alpheon, making it easier to move forward with the treatment you need.
Learn MoreSchedule a Consultation
If you have receding gums and would like to know whether the Pinhole Surgical Technique is an option, schedule a consultation with Dr. Chris Brett at our Centennial location. To book an appointment at our Centennial location, call (303) 795-5700. To book an appointment at our Aurora location, call (303) 755-4500.
FAQs
How long does Pinhole Technique last?
Results are intended to be long-lasting. Longevity varies depending on the type of recession, tissue health, oral hygiene, and whether the factors that contributed to the recession are controlled.
Can several teeth be treated at once?
Yes. Multiple areas of gum recession can often be treated during the same procedure, depending on the location of the recession and the health of the surrounding tissues.
Is Pinhole Surgical Technique better than gum grafting?
Neither approach is best for every case. Pinhole treatment may be appropriate when there is enough healthy gum tissue to reposition, while traditional gum grafting may provide a more predictable result for other types of recession.
Who offers Pinhole Surgical Technique in the Denver area?
Dr. Chris Brett offers Pinhole Surgical Technique at Periodontal Associates for patients who are appropriate candidates. A consultation can determine whether this approach or another treatment for gum recession is recommended.
