Gum recession is the process by which gum tissue pulls away from the surfaces of teeth, leaving the roots exposed. Many times, the first sign of gum recession includes sensitive teeth and the appearance that some teeth are longer than others. Receding gum tissue is often a result of periodontal disease (also known as gum disease), a degenerative condition that eventually leads to jaw bone and tooth loss if left untreated. Correcting gum recession is imperative to restoring and maintaining a healthy smile.

Gum grafting and the Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST™) are two major procedures used to reverse the effects of gum recession. Dr. Gary Michels offers both gum grafting and PST™ in Greenville, NC to help reverse receding gums, resulting in a healthier smile.

The Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique (PST), invented and patented by John Chao, DDS, MADG, is a scalpel-free, suture-free, graft-free procedure for correcting gum recession. Through a small hole made by a needle, Dr. Michels uses specially designed instruments to gently loosen the gum tissue and glide it over the receded part of the tooth. Since there is no cutting or stitching, patients can expect minimal post-operative symptoms (pain, swelling and bleeding). Most patients also are pleasantly surprised by the instant cosmetic improvement.

The unique features of the Pinhole Surgical Technique have aroused keen interest on the part of the media. So far news programs at 240 TV stations have featured this scalpel-free technique of treating a problem that is found in half of the U.S. population (JADA, 2003). Dr. Chao made a guest appearance on the nationally syndicated “The Doctors Show,” “Dr. Steve Show,” “ABC,” “NBC,” and over 240 other stations across the U.S. and Canada, reaching an estimated 10 million viewers. For this reason, you may have already heard questions and comments from your colleagues and patients about this “breakthrough” method of correcting gingival recession.

Dr. Michels provides traditional gum grafting as well to reverse receding gums. This technique requires Dr. Michels to excise tissue grafts from different areas of the mouth, and then suture them onto the affected area where gum recession has occurred.

Because of the requirements of the traditional procedure, gum grafting results in two areas of the mouth that must heal over the course of two to three weeks. Due to the healing time required, patients can usually have only one or two teeth treated at a time.

Dr. Michels is proud to offer both the traditional gum grafting procedure and this exciting alternative gum rejuvenation treatment to reverse receding gums. Call our office today to make your appointment for a free consultation regarding gum recession treatment.