Gingival recession also called receding gums, is a common dental problem. People over the age of 65 years are most affected by this condition. Up to 88 percent of people in this age bracket experience some type of gum recession in one tooth or more.

 

Receding Gums

This is when your gums pull back from the tooth or wear down, thereby revealing more of the tooth. This problem can leave the tooth’s root exposed. This leads to the weakening of the surrounding gum tissue. It can also increase the sensitivity of your tooth. You need non-moving, firm, and strong gum tissue to protect and surround your teeth. Weak gum tissue caused by gum recession can create pockets of teeth between the tooth and gum line.
 

This gradual process stems from aging, tobacco use, aggressive brushing techniques, advanced periodontal disease, and bruxism. Gingival recession can lead to different cosmetic issues that make teeth look more pronounced and longer. The problem exposes the roots of your teeth. This increases tooth sensitivity, making it painful to drink and eat.
 

In serious cases, gum recession leads to the formation of pockets between the gumline and teeth. Bacteria, food particles and tartar can gather in these pockets, thereby increasing the risk for tooth loss and gum disease. It can also lead to more serious problems such as bone necrosis and periodontitis. If recessed gums are affecting the comfort and appearance of your smile, consider the pinhole surgical technique.

 

The Pinhole Rejuvenation Technique

Soft-tissue grafting is the traditional method of dealing with gum recession. Many patients fear this technique because they believe it can be extremely painful. This fear gave rise to innovation, which led to the adoption of the pinhole surgical technique to treat gingival recession.
 

It is a good treatment option that offers a minimally invasive treatment alternative to more complex procedures. It combines the tunnel technique and the coronally positioned flap procedure to treat gum recession. The pinhole rejuvenation technique uses a specially designed tool to loosen the gum tissue. This allows for the repositioning of the gum over the exposed roots.
 

Afterward, the dentist places collagen strips over the repositioned gums to help them hold their new position during the healing period. The procedure takes around an hour, but you may need several sessions to achieve the best results. Most people require just two sessions. Since the technique is minimally invasive, most patients do not experience any discomfort.
 

The results from the pinhole surgical technique are immediate. You may experience some mild swelling for about 12 to 24 hours. The tiny punctures created in your gums will heal within one day. So, if you have a busy work life, you will not have to change your schedule or miss any work following the procedure. There are no surgical steps, sutures, or incisions to recover from.


 

To request a consultation for the pinhole surgical technique, give us a call at 646-863-4810. At Marine Park Periodontics and Implantology, we strive to provide the best in dental care. We use the most advanced technology and have well-trained staff and doctors. Feel free to visit us in our offices in Brooklyn, New York.