If you suffer from gum recession, Dr. Robert Cain offers the minimally invasive Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique (PST). Dr. Cain is one of the few dentists in the Maryville, TN area who is a certified provider of Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST), invented and patented by John Chao, DDS, MAGD.
The Pinhole® Surgical Technique makes it possible for Dr. Cain to reshape your gum line without using a scalpel or sutures. This new method of treating receding gums makes it easier for a dentist to give you natural looking results in less time.
Dr. Cain uses this non-invasive method to effectively treat receding gums with minimal discomfort and downtime at his Knoxville, TN dental office.
Treating Receding Gums in Maryville
Receding gums happen when your gum tissue pulls back from your teeth. This exposes the sensitive roots that are normally protected. This condition is not just a cosmetic issue; it can seriously impact your oral health.
When gums recede, gaps or “pockets” form between your teeth and gums. These pockets easily trap harmful bacteria. Over time, this bacteria can attack the bone that supports your teeth, which may eventually lead to loose teeth or even tooth loss.
Common causes include grinding your teeth, clenching your jaw, or brushing too hard. However, the most frequent cause is gum disease. Gum disease starts when plaque builds up on teeth because of inadequate brushing and flossing.
The best way to prevent receding gums is with a good daily routine of brushing and flossing. If you notice your gums are pulling back, it is very important to seek professional treatment. Getting help early can stop the problem from getting worse and protect your teeth and bone from further damage.
Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique (PST) in Maryville, TN
The Pinhole® Surgical Technique is a scalpel-free and suture-free way to treat gum recession. This microsurgical gum rejuvenation procedure has proven to be the least invasive way to move the gums back over the exposed tooth roots.
Dr. Cain will begin the procedure by numbing the area to be treated with a local anesthetic. He will make a small, needle sized hole in the gums and use a special tooth to gently loosen the tissue.
Dr. Cain will then gently move the gum tissue down over the exposed tooth roots. He will shape the gums to create a full, natural looking gum line. This will not involve cutting the gums so sutures will not be necessary.
Most patients report very little discomfort during and after the one to two hour long procedure. Because it is minimally invasive, there is little to no swelling or bleeding. Downtime is minimal and most patients experience immediate, natural and aesthetically balanced results.
Benefits of Choosing the Pinhole Surgical Technique®
The Pinhole Surgical Technique® offers significant advantages over traditional gum grafting. It’s a more comfortable and convenient choice for patients. Some benefits include:
- Minimally Invasive: Unlike traditional grafting, PST requires no scalpels and no sutures. Dr. Cain works through a tiny pinhole, which means your healing process is much faster and more comfortable.
- Faster Recovery & Immediate Results: There’s minimal downtime after your procedure. Most patients can return to their normal activities the very next day. You’ll also see an immediate improvement in your smile, with a fuller, more natural-looking gumline right after treatment.
- Less Discomfort: Without having to cut and suture gums, patients experience significantly less post-operative pain, swelling, and bleeding. The procedure itself is also very comfortable.
PST vs. Traditional Gum Graft Surgery
If you’re considering treatment for receding gums, you should learn how PST differs from the traditional method.
Conventional gum graft surgery involves cutting a flap in the roof of your mouth to remove tissue, which is then stitched onto the receded areas. This often leads to significant post-operative pain, a longer recovery, and two surgical sites to heal.
With the modern approach, PST completely eliminates the need for a donor site from your palate. Dr. Cain uses special instruments to gently adjust your existing gum tissue through a single pinhole. This means you avoid the painful palate wound entirely, resulting in a much more pleasant experience from start to finish.
Pinhole Gum Surgery FAQs
Read answers to commonly asked questions this type of gum surgery in our office.
How does Pinhole Gum Surgery differ from traditional gum grafting?
Pinhole Gum Surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that doesn’t require cutting or sutures. Instead of taking tissue from the roof of your mouth, it repositions your existing gum tissue through small pinhole-sized entry points. This reduces recovery time and discomfort compared to traditional grafting.
Does Pinhole Gum Surgery prevent future gum recession?
Pinhole Gum Surgery can help treat existing gum recession, but it doesn’t prevent future recession completely. Maintaining good oral hygiene, addressing grinding habits, and getting regular dental check-ups minimize the risk of new recession. The success of preventing future recession largely depends on addressing the underlying causes that caused the initial problem.
How soon will I see the results after Pinhole Gum Surgery?
Results are immediate. Once the gum tissue is repositioned, the treated area will instantly look healthier and more natural. Healing continues over the following weeks, but the cosmetic improvement is visible right after the procedure.
How long does it take to recover from Pinhole Gum Surgery?
Most patients recover within a few days to a week. There’s minimal downtime, and many people return to work or daily activities the next day. Following your dentist’s post-operative care instructions ensures a smooth recovery.
Are the results of Pinhole Gum Surgery permanent?
The results of Pinhole Gum Surgery can be long-lasting but aren’t guaranteed to be permanent. The stability of results depends on factors like oral hygiene habits, genetics, and whether you address the original causes of recession. Most patients keep their results for many years with proper care and regular dental check-ups.
Is Pinhole Gum Surgery effective for all types of gum recession?
Pinhole Gum Surgery works best for mild to moderate gum recession and specific types of gum defects. Not every case is suitable. Severe recession, significant bone loss, or active gum disease might need traditional grafting instead. An evaluation by a dentist or periodontist will determine if you’re a good candidate for this technique.
Schedule a Dental Exam Today
If you suffer from gum recession, contact Dr. Cain today for a consultation. Using the Pinhole® Surgical Technique, he can adjust your existing gum tissue to properly cover the exposed roots.
Dr. Cain is one of the only periodontists in the Maryville area who offers this revolutionary procedure. Call us at (865) 276-7173 or request an appointment online.
