Pinhole Surgical Technique

The pinhole surgical technique is a viable alternative to skin grafting surgery. The procedure involves creating a small pinhole through the gums and utilizing special instruments to both loosen and stretch the gum tissue. This allows us to spread the tissue across exposed roots and eliminate gum recession.

You may need or even want the pinhole surgical technique if you have gum recession. Gum recession can occur for a variety of reasons, but the end result involves exposed roots and teeth that look too long. Gum recession can even cause severe sensitivity to the teeth involved, making the teeth more susceptible to decay. The pinhole surgical technique is simple, yet highly effective.

The procedure can be done under local anesthetic, so general anesthesia and sedation are not required unless you request them for your appointment. This makes the procedure safe and effective for most patients. There is generally no cutting or incisions required other than a small pinhole through the gums.

First, we will administer anesthetic or sedation of your choosing. A small pinhole is then made through the gum tissue. The tissue is loosened using specialized instruments and stretched over the area of gum recession. This allows for the roots to be covered and prevents both pain and sensitivity of these areas. The procedure can be done quickly and can be used for multiple exposed roots. You’ll come in for a consultation prior to the procedure so that we can help in answering questions about the procedure and care after going home.

If you are interested in the pinhole surgical technique, call our office and we’ll work to answer any questions you have concerning this procedure.