Innovations in cosmetic surgery have led to safer, minimally invasive, and best of all, affordable ways to achieve the perfect smile. Pinhole gum surgery is one of these recent changes. Gum recession due to age and other factors, such as trauma, can now be reversed painlessly and easily.
A recent study revealed that 6 months after the procedure, 96.7% of the patients’ roots were covered. Another study revealed coverage in 91% of cases and near-complete root coverage in 81%.Swelling and patient discomfort reduction was also reported.
Various periodontists are available in most major cities throughout North America. Do not hesitate to call one today.
What is Pinhole Gum Surgery?
Recently developed by orthopedic surgeon Dr. John Chao, pinhole gum surgery or the pinhole surgical technique (PST) is a minimally invasive procedure, without grafting or sutures, which helps reverse gum recession. Roots are once again covered with soft tissue.
Pinhole gum surgery helps repair gum recession by correcting uneven gums. The main goal of the surgery is to restore the health, function, and look of gums most efficiently, with fewest complications.
The periodontist or periodontal plastic surgeon makes 2 to 3mm “pinhole” incisions in the gums or alveolar mucosa. A special tool or syringe frees the gingiva from the tooth and bone. The number of incisions depends on the number of teeth that a patient needs to be treated.
The procedure takes 1 session, approximately 2 hours, and only requires local anesthesia. Mild swelling and pain may be felt for the first week following the procedure. Results will be seen 6 weeks after treatment. The results are permanent.
Benefits of Pinhole Gum Surgery
Apart from being minimally invasive and relatively painless, pinhole gum surgery requires no open wounds or incisions. This means a shorter and easier recovery time. It takes approximately 1 day after surgery for the small holes to fade. Patients report going back to their regular activities shortly after surgery, usually in about 1-2 days.
Receding gums, while cosmetically displeasing, also leave teeth more susceptible to infection. Pinhole surgery can prevent this.
Pinhole gum surgery also has many advantages over the old technique of gum grafting. Gum grafting, although an effective way to restore gums tissues and prevent gums from receding further, is quite a painful process. Stitches are involved, leading to soreness and considerable downtime. On the other hand, pinhole gum surgery is painless, quicker, and patients recover much faster.
Best Candidates for Pinhole Gum Surgery
The procedure is recommended for patients with available thick gum tissue. Those with advanced bone loss are not eligible for the procedure.
Causes of Gum Recession
Various reasons for gum recession exist. These include inadequate tooth care or oral hygiene, aggressive brushing or flossing, misalignment of teeth, genetics, and trauma or injury to the teeth or gums.
One of the major reasons is also periodontal disease or gum disease. Many patients with this condition require surgery. Signs of gum disease include swollen and red gums, persistent halitosis, receding gums, loose teeth, and pus.
How to Choose the Perfect Periodontist
Choosing a periodontist does not have to be a difficult process. A periodontist is a dental specialist who works to prevent, diagnose, and treat periodontal disease. In addition, they also focus on the prevention and treatment of soft tissue and bone infections in the mouth.
One of the easiest ways to choose a periodontist is to ask your family dentist for a recommendation. Be sure to read the provider’s pamphlets, brochures, newsletters, and website for more information.
Find out how long the periodontist has been in practice. Ask to see samples of their work. Ask about a post-treatment plan.
Ask yourself if you are comfortable with the practitioner. If not, it is best to keep looking. Finding a periodontist that is professional, accommodating, and caring is of utmost importance. Find someone that you trust.
Various internet searches will reveal reviews of local periodontist as well. Some websites include the Better Business Bureau, Yelp reviews, as well as testimonials on business websites themselves.
In addition, word of mouth reviews and recommendations from friends, family, coworkers, and neighbors are a great way to find the perfect periodontist as well.
Most importantly, check the periodontist’s qualifications. In the United States, periodontists are required to have a Master of Science in Periodontics and a postdoctoral certificate in periodontics. In addition, ensure that they are certified by the American Board of Periodontology (ABP).
In Canada, the certification is quite similar.
Costs of Pinhole Gum Surgery
The average cost of pinhole gum surgery is approximately $4,953 CAD, and ranges from $1,108 to $7,169 CAD.
In the US, costs are approximately $600 to $1,450 USD per tooth.
Like dentists, many periodontists offer flexible rates and payment plans. In addition, many offer no-obligation quotes, so do not hesitate to call one today.
Restoring one’s gums is no longer cost-prohibitive or impossible, with recent advances in pinhole gum surgery.
