Pinhole Surgical Technique Costs

Many patients dread being told by their dentist that in order to properly resolve their receding teeth is to have them removed and replaced with dentures. There are various ways to improve the effects of gum recession, however, a new technique was developed in the past few years called the pinhole surgical technique dc. A common question from patients is how much does the pinhole surgical technique cost? The technique can be quite expensive and may not be available in your area.

It is common for people to experience gum recession as they age, but there are other factors that may contribute to the issue. Other contributing factors to gum disease can include genetics and gum disease. Aggressive and overly frequent brushing of your teeth can also cause inflammation which leads to the misplacement of the gum tissue.

Gum recession can give the teeth a longer appearance and the tooth root, which is normally hidden, can become exposed. Pockets or spaces can start to form at the area where the teeth join to the gum line. This provides an excellent opportunity for bacteria attach and causes additional damage to the surrounding tissue and bone.

Pinhole Surgical Technique for Severe Gum Recession

The traditional treatment used for gum recession is a connective tissue graft. This is commonly used in the worst cases of progressive gum recession. A flap of the patient’s skin is removed from the palate and some tissue is taken away from beneath the flap and then attached to the gum tissue that surrounds the exposed root.

Connective tissue grafts take a while to complete as only one or two teeth can be treated in a single visit. In addition, it can up to two weeks to fully heal. The pinhole surgical technique (PST), however, is far less invasive, less painful and requires less time to heal. PST involves a small puncture hole in the gum which doesn’t require any incisions or sutures. The procedure was developed by the dentist John Chao in the United States.

Pinhole Surgical Technique Process

Through the Pinhole Surgical Technique, a small needle is used to make a small hole in the existing gum tissue. Special instruments are then used to gently loosen the gum tissue through the pinhole. These special tools aid in expanding and sliding the gumline to cover the exposed root structure. Grafts, sutures and incisions are not required with the Pinhole Surgical Technique. PST simply involves an adjustment of the existing tissue.

A local anesthetic is typically used for the procedure and it takes about an hour to complete. The treatment involves minimal pain and typically only slight discomfort immediately following the procedure.

The benefits of the Pinhole Surgical Technique include the following:

  • Reduced pain following the treatment
  • Quicker recovery compared to traditional gum grafting
  • Sutures are not used
  • Scalpels and invasive surgical tools are not needed
  • Donor tissue is not taken from the patient’s palate
  • The results are almost immediate and produce a natural looking smile

While this new treatment is exciting and a great option for many patients, it is not suitable for everyone. There are strict guidelines regarding food intake and oral hygiene which must be followed after the treatment.

More on Pinhole Surgical Technique : Pinhole Surgical Technique vs Gum Grafting

Waleed Head Shot b

Dr. Alkakhan

Dr. Waleed completed a General Practice Residency at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, gaining advanced clinical training in surgical treatments. His thirst for expertise led him to specialize in Periodontics and Implant Surgery at the prestigious Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC). At MUSC, he served as Chief Resident of Periodontics and conducted groundbreaking research on macrophage plasticity during periodontal inflammation, earning a second Master's of Science degree.

Meet Dr. Waleed Alkakhan >

DC_PRECISION-219

Dr. Daru

In 2005, Dr. Daru embarked on her educational odyssey, crossing continents to pursue her passion for dentistry. She obtained her Master of Science in Oral Biology and a certificate in Periodontics from the prestigious New York University and the University of Maryland, Baltimore, in 2010. During her academic years, she delved into intensive research, particularly focusing on innovative bone regeneration techniques, showcasing her dedication to advancing the field.

Meet Dr. Antara Daru >

DC_PRECISION-221

Dr. Fields

Dr. Fields, a native of Lexington, Kentucky, embarked on his dental journey at Georgetown College, where he earned a B.S. degree in biology/chemistry. He then pursued his passion for dentistry, graduating with a Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) from the University of Louisville in 1989. Additionally, he earned the prestigious Ma.C.S.D. degree, specializing in IV conscious sedation, showcasing his commitment to advancing his skills and knowledge for the benefit of his patients.

Meet Dr. Charles Fields >

Dr. Gupta

Dr. Gupta

Driven by a dedication to excellence, Dr. Gupta embarked on a transformative periodontal residency at the University of Detroit Mercy. Here, she earned her Master of Science and a certificate in Periodontics while simultaneously serving as an adjunct faculty for the School of Dentistry for three years. Her commitment to advancing dental knowledge took her to an international stage, where she presented groundbreaking research on clinical treatment for gum recession and root coverage at a prestigious conference in London.

Meet Dr. Vidushi Gupta > 

Dima Lakkis v1

Dr. Lakkis

Dr. Dima Lakkis earned her DDS with honors in 2006 and completed her Periodontics training and Master of Science at Case Western Reserve. She is Board Certified and a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology. Dr. Lakkis provides a full range of periodontal and implant treatments, with advanced training in cosmetic procedures. She is an active member of several dental organizations and has published in the Journal of Periodontology on the link between periodontal and systemic health.

Meet Dr. Dima Lakkis > 

DC_PRECISION-250

Dr. Zalewsky

Following his military service, Dr. Zalewsky pursued advanced training at Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry. There, he earned a Certificate in Periodontics and Oral Implantology, along with a Master of Science in Oral Biology. This comprehensive training equipped him to handle intricate periodontal conditions and complex oral implant procedures with precision and skill.

Meet Dr. Justin Zalewsky >