Pinhole gum treatment for receding gums in Franklin, TN
Receding gums can make teeth look longer, feel sensitive and expose the roots. Dr. Blourchian is certified in the Pinhole Surgical Technique, a way to treat gum recession through a small opening in the gum, usually without grafts or stitches.
What causes receding gums?
Gums can pull back for many reasons, including brushing too hard, gum disease, grinding or clenching, tooth position and genetics. As the gum line moves down, more of the tooth root shows.
Signs of gum recession
- Teeth that look longer than they used to
- Sensitivity to cold, sweets or brushing near the gum line
- A notch you can feel near the gum line
- Dark spaces between teeth near the gums
How Pinhole gum treatment works
- 1Exam and planningWe measure the recession and check for gum disease, which is treated first if present.
- 2A small openingAfter numbing, a small pinhole is made in the gum above the area of recession.
- 3Repositioning the gumSpecial instruments gently loosen and slide the existing gum tissue down over the exposed roots.
- 4HealingSmall collagen strips help hold the tissue in place while it heals. Stitches are usually not needed.
Dr. Blourchian is certified in the Pinhole technique and treats gum recession in our Franklin office.
Part of complete gum care
Pinhole treatment is one part of how we care for gums at New Image Dentistry. For gum disease, Dr. Blourchian, a certified LANAP provider, also offers deep cleanings and LANAP laser gum treatment. See our gum care page. Regular checkups and cleanings help keep gums healthy afterward.
Individual results vary. Whether Pinhole treatment is right for you depends on an in-person exam.
How the Pinhole Surgical Technique works (animation)
An animation from the Pinhole Academy YouTube channel. It is an illustration only, not filmed at our office, and does not show Dr. Blourchian or his patients.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Pinhole Surgical Technique?
The Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST) treats gum recession by making a small opening in the gum and gently moving existing gum tissue down to cover exposed roots. It usually does not require taking tissue from the roof of the mouth, cutting with a scalpel or stitches.
Is Dr. Blourchian certified in the Pinhole technique?
Yes. Dr. Blourchian is certified in the Pinhole Surgical Technique and provides Pinhole gum treatment at New Image Dentistry in Franklin, TN.
Who is a good candidate for Pinhole gum treatment?
People with gum recession on one or more teeth may be candidates. Any active gum disease is treated first. Dr. Blourchian will examine your gums and explain whether Pinhole treatment, another approach or simply monitoring is right for you.
What is recovery like?
Many people return to normal activities within a day or two. You will get simple instructions, such as eating soft foods and being gentle with brushing in the treated area for a while.
How is Pinhole different from a traditional gum graft?
A traditional gum graft usually takes tissue from the roof of the mouth and stitches it in place. The Pinhole technique repositions the gum tissue you already have through a small opening, so there is usually no second surgical site and no stitches.
Will gum recession come back?
Results vary. Gentle brushing, treating grinding, regular cleanings and keeping gums healthy all help protect the result.
Not sure where to start? Talk with us.
Book online any time, or call and our team will help you find a time that works.