Will the Chao Pinhole Technique Treat Gum Recession in One Session?

When gum disease advances into later stages, gum recession can occur. This causes the gumline to shrink and tooth roots to be exposed. At Premier Periodontics, we offer gum grafting and soft tissue grafting to improve how the gumline looks and to protect these tooth roots from sensitivity and pain. Our periodontal specialists use different grafting techniques, including the Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique (PST), during gum recession treatment. Contact one of our locations in Bellevue, Everett, Kirkland, Mercer Island, Olympia, or Redmond, WA to schedule an appointment to learn more about gum recession treatment.

Causes of receding gums

Gum recession occurs when the margin of gum tissue that surrounds the teeth is pulled back or wears away. This exposes more of the tooth, including the tooth root. When this happens, pockets will form between the teeth and the gumline, making them susceptible to disease-causing bacteria build up. When left untreated, this tissue and the surrounding bone structures of the teeth can be damaged, leading to tooth loss.

There are many reasons why gums recede, including:

1. Aggressive tooth brushing: When you brush the wrong way or too hard, it can cause your enamel to wear away, leading to gum recession.

2. Periodontal disease: This bacterial gum infection destroys gum tissue and the bone that holds teeth together.

3. Teeth grinding or clenching: Both of these bad habits can put too much force on your teeth.

4. Poor oral hygiene: Not flossing and brushing enough can allow plaque to turn into tartar, which increases your risk of developing periodontal disease.

5. Hormonal changes: Pregnancy and menopause are two instances where the gums can become more sensitive.

6. Poor bite: When your teeth don’t come together properly, too much force is placed on the gums.

Who is the best candidate for gum grafting?

Receding gums impact the way your smile looks. When the gumline recedes, exposed tooth roots lack the necessary protection and will begin to feel sensitive. This leaves them at risk for damage to tooth decay or even abrasion from brushing. While receding gums are fairly common, most people don’t realize they have receding gums since they occur gradually. The first sign of gum recession is often tooth sensitivity. If you believe that your gums are receding, it’s important to make an appointment with our periodontal specialists at Premier Periodontics to discuss gum recession treatment options that can restore your oral health. A consultation helps you to learn if gum grafting will fix your receding gums.

Gum recession treatment

Gum grafts are used to repair gum recession caused by periodontal disease. There are different types of grafts that can be used during this treatment. One of the methods offered at Premier Periodontics is the Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique, which is a minimally invasive gum graft. During this procedure, we numb the areas being treated with local anesthesia. Our periodontal specialists then make a pinhole-sized opening with a needle; no cuts or incisions are made.

Through this small opening, we will gently move receded tissues back and cover any exposed roots. Returning the gumline to a healthier place also will protect any at-risk surfaces. We use thin pieces of collagen between the teeth and gums to hold the new gumline in place while it heals. Minor swelling may occur for the first few days following your gum recession surgery. With proper oral hygiene, this is a long-lasting procedure.

Learn more on how gum grafting can improve your oral health

Premier Periodontics offers gum recession treatments that help our patients to repair gum recession. Our proven gum recession treatment improves your oral health and how your smile looks. When you have gum recession, it’s important to schedule an appointment with our periodontal specialists to discuss your options at one of our locations in Bellevue, Everett, Kirkland, Mercer Island, Olympia, or Redmond, WA.