When you suffer from periodontal disease, the later stage of the disease could cause the tissues to recede from the gums. Our team can not only treat the underlying disease, but also provide a conservative alternative to traditional gum grafts. In today’s blog, your Encinitas/San Diego, CA, periodontist talks about the Pinhole Surgical Technique®.

The Causes of Gum Recession

When gum disease begins to reach a more severe stage, this could mean the gum tissues begin to pull away from the teeth. This not only makes teeth appear longer or uneven, but could expose sensitive portions of the root and lower tooth structure, which then increases the risk of tooth decay and dental infection. Not only that, but recession could indicate periodontitis, the stage linked to adult tooth loss. When you experience recession, or sore, red gums that bleed easily, then you need treatment! Our team can help.

The Pinhole Surgical Technique®

With dental lasers, we can gently trim away the diseased portions of the smile and also modify gum and bone structure to prepare your smile for the Pinhole Surgical Technique®, which we use to address the receded tissues. The procedure can improve the gum line and protect your oral health at the same time. Instead of taking tissues from other parts of your mouth, our team will make a miniscule pinhole in the tissues and add a special collagen material. We then manipulate the tissues to cover the teeth once again, and provide an esthetically pleasing smile too. The process is complex and only takes one visit. Most people return to their normal routine in as little as 24 to 48 hours.

Preventive Dental Care

Following the procedure, our team can offer preventive care to help manage the disease and prevent recession and other concerns, including tooth loss. We may suggest a traditional cleaning every three to four months, or procedures like Supportive Periodontal Maintenance, Ozone Therapy, or the use of special medications, to manage the disease and safeguards your smile. At home, you can help by avoiding tobacco products, brushing and flossing daily, and cutting back on the sugar and starch in your diet.

If you have any questions about how we treat gum recession with the Pinhole Surgical Technique®, or if you’re ready to schedule an appointment, then contest our team today to learn more. We want to help you enjoy good periodontal health and a full smile for years to come!

Schedule a Visit to Start Your Treatment

Our team wants to help you find a conservative solution to your gum recession! If you would like to find out more about how we improve receding tissues,  then please call Dr. Kania’s laser periodontal office in Encinitas/San Diego, CA, at (760) 642-0711.