Pin Hole Surgery

Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation

When it comes to your health, every treatment carries with it some side effects and potential complications. You may hear about success stories from some people and things that went wrong for others. If you suffer from gum recession, you may be looking into treatment options including a gum graft or the less-invasive Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique  at Enhanced Smiles. Surgery is invasive and could lay you up for a while, but what about

PST Can Correct Recession, No Matter its Cause

Receding gums happen when the gums pull away from the teeth, revealing more of the tooth and its roots. It commonly causes sensitivity and makes the teeth appear longer than the others. Gum recession may be caused by:

  • Gum disease
  • Brushing too aggressively
  • Trauma to the gums
  • Aging
  • Genetics

While many believe seeking treatment for gum recession is unnecessary, gum recession can lead to decay, extreme sensitivity and tooth loss if left to progress. Many of our patients’ fear undergoing surgery to correct recession, but at Enhanced Smiles we offer a virtually pain-free alternative to traditional gum grafting surgery, the Pinhole® Surgical Technique (PST).

Gum Treatment Alternative with Little-to-No Recovery Time

The Pinhole® Surgical Technique (PST) is an advanced solution for gum recession that does not require the use of scalpels or stitches like its traditional predecessor, gum grafting. The minimally invasive treatment is completed in as little as one appointment. With specially designed tools that create a small pinhole in the gum tissue, our doctors gently move the gums into proper position over the teeth. The gums are then held in place by collagen strips, which promote faster healing as the gums reattach to the teeth to restore a natural-looking smile. The results are immediate, and most people are back to their regular routine the same or next day.

Side Effects

PST™ involves the use of small instruments that are inserted through a pin-sized hole in the gums to help readjust them to a healthy position. Because Dr. Pham moves the gums you will be numbed with local anesthetic and you will need to follow strict instructions for care and diet in the weeks following. There are also a few side effects to be aware of:

  • Some swelling in the gums (possibly even more on one side than the other)
  • Some pain, to be managed by over-the-counter and prescribed medications
  • Cotton ball-like feeling in the mouth
  • Fatigue, which may be due to medications but also to the physical toll of the procedure
  • Some bleeding, but always call us if you are worried.

Possible Complications

Every treatment also carries with it a risk of complication. PST™ is no different:

  • Food can get stuck in the gums – you must follow the diet guidelines carefully
  • Excess bleeding – you should see Dr. Pham right away if there is unexpected bleeding
  • Gums continue to recede – unfortunately, your gums may not always stay in the new position

Have a Consultation First

It is important to consult with Dr. Pham first to ensure PST™ is the right choice for you. Not every patient may qualify for the procedure, in which case other treatment options may be explored. To schedule your consultation and learn how we can help treat your gum recession in Gastonia please contact our office today.