Treatment for receding gums

Traditionally, receding gums have been treated by grafting soft tissue from a patient’s palate onto the tooth’s exposed root structure. The treatment involves incisions, sutures and a certain level of discomfort.

Dr John Chao D.D.S pioneered the Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation Technique^™ in the United States in 2006 with the objective of offering his patients a more comfortable treatment option.

Why is Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation different?

Dr Chao developed the pinhole technique with patient comfort in mind. He believed patients would benefit from a less invasive treatment that minimises making scalpel incisions, grafting soft palate tissue, and suturing.¹

Instead, Dr Chao’s Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation Technique loosens existing gum tissue to cover the tooth’s receded area using instruments created for this procedure.

Some benefits of Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation may include the following^.

• Minimally invasive technique²
• Minimises the need to take donor tissue from the patient’s palate³
• Reduces the need of stitches or scalpels⁴
• Potentially more natural-looking results⁵
• May have faster patient recovery⁶

^Any type of surgery carries risk and some of the possible side effects following this type of treatment include swelling, pain, and bleeding. A soft diet may also be recommended during the recovery period - all of which should be discussed with you at the time of your consultation. Results may vary for individuals, please consult with your health professional to discuss whether this treatment is suitable for you.

Are receding gums a problem?

Everyone needs healthy gum tissue to maintain the integrity and stability of their teeth. Strong gums also need to withstand daily brushing and cleaning, as well as different types of foods, acidity and temperatures.

When gums recede, the root surfaces of teeth are exposed, leaving them vulnerable to bacteria. This may result in decay and other problems, such as damage to the supporting structures and, in some cases, loss of teeth. Sensitivity to hot and cold foods is also common.

Why do gums recede?

Although ageing and genetics may be naturally contributing factors in gum recession, it can also be caused by periodontal disease involving bacterial infection under the gum.

Other causes of receding gums include lip or tongue piercings, abrasive tooth-brushing, grinding or clenching teeth, and crooked or misaligned teeth.

Where can I get an opinion about my gums?

Clearly Dental Chatswood in New South Wales offers gum treatment with the Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation Technique.

Dr Anthony Wasserman is the lead dentist at Clearly Dental Chatswood. With over 40 years of experience in dentistry, Dr Wasserman has a special interest in oral rehabilitation with an accent on facial aesthetics and smile design.

Continually updating his knowledge in the developments of dental technology, Dr Wasserman is trained in the Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation Technique, as pioneered by Dr John Chao.

How much does it cost?

Because gum recession is not exactly the same for every person, Dr Wasserman will carry out an assessment and, after this initial consultation, will give you a quote based on the health of your gums, and the number of areas affected.

The cost for this technique is not insignificant. Payment options may be available to help you manage the cost in more bite-sized payments. You can find out more here.

Make an appointment at Clearly Dental Chatswood to find out more about Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation and to understand whether this treatment is available and suitable for you.

References

1. pinholetechniquealhambra.com
2. Pinhole Gum Surgery: Treatment for Gum Recession | Colgate® Oral Care
3. Home - The Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique by John Chao, DDS, MAGD (pinholetechniquealhambra.com)
4. Pinhole Gum Surgery: Treatment for Gum Recession | Colgate® Oral Care
5. Home - The Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique by John Chao, DDS, MAGD (pinholetechniquealhambra.com)
6. Home - The Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique by John Chao, DDS, MAGD (pinholetechniquealhambra.com)