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The Pinhole Technique by Colorado Advanced Dentistry 

Colorado Advanced Dentistry serving Denver, CO is excited to offer the latest minimally-invasive treatment for gum recession: The Pinhole Surgical Technique! Dr. MarkaWhatcott, DDS is one of the handful of dentists in the entire world that is trained and licensed to perform this revolutionary receding gum surgery. The Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST) covers areas of gum recession and removes the need for painful cut and stitch surgery. At Colorado Advanced Dentistry, our mission is to provide a gentler, more personalized approach to gum therapy that people can comfortably afford. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions our office at Colorado Advanced Dentistry receives regarding the Pinhole Surgical Technique.  

What is the Pinhole Surgical Technique?

PTS is a minimally-invasive treatment option that works to reverse gum recession without the need for grafting, periosteal elevators, cutting, or sewing! Dr. Whatcott begins the pinhole gum surgery by making a small hole in the patient’s existing gum tissue with a sharp needle. Through this hole or pinhole, a specialized instrument works to elevate the gum tissue. Once elevated away from the bone and tooth, the gum can be easily loosened, expanded, and gently slid to the gum line. With the gums in the proper position, collagen strips are placed through the pinhole and pushed under the gums to cover any previously exposed root structures. Through this gum recession surgery, the tissue is supported at this new position, and the collagen strips work to assist in root coverage and a quick healing process.

What are the benefits of PST?

Common reasons Denver, CO patients are choosing this gum recession treatment over traditional gum recession surgery include: 

  • With no cutting, stitching, or grafts required, you can expect minimal swelling, pain, and bleeding after the pinhole gum rejuvenation treatment is complete.  
  • Significantly less treatment time compared most other conventional receding gum surgeries.  
  • This innovative gum recession treatment can treat as many teeth in one sitting as the patient and dentist see fit.  
  • Traditional treatment options use the patient’s own tissue, which offers limitations on how much of the area can be treated at one time and can require multiple rounds of palatal grafting. 
  • The pinhole technique works to restore the natural look of the gum line almost immediately following treatment.  

Although many forms of gum therapy can successfully stop the recession from worsening, likely, the visible damage done to your gums remains. Among its numerous benefits, the pinhole technique does not require additional dental services to address gum recession. The pinhole technique works to save you time and money!  

Who is a candidate for PST?

Since the pinhole technique is hugely non-invasive, most patients with gum recession issues in Denver, CO would benefit from this technique. Before performing the treatment process, Dr. Whatcott will sit down with you to review your dental and medical history, as well as your oral health goals. You’re a considerable candidate for PST if you: 

  • Want an alternative to conventional gum surgery 
  • Desire a treatment that non-invasive and requires no scalpels or large surgical instruments  
  • Need a treatment method that doesn’t restrict your food intake 
  • Want long-lasting results without any post-operational pain 
  • Don’t want to have any tissue removed from other parts of your mouth 
  • Want a fast and efficient recovery process 

If you are considered an appropriate candidate by Dr. Whatcott, you’ll be required to keep up with adequate oral hygiene, attend follow-up visits to ensure optimal results, and avoid any gum-eroding activities, such as aggressive brushing and tobacco use. 

How many treatments will I need with PST?

In most cases, the pinhole technique is completed in a single visit. However, the length of time required for treatment varies depending on how many teeth need treatment. 

How long does PST take?

The duration of each individual visit varies depending on how many teeth need repairing. It takes approximately 10-20 minutes to treat the tissue for a single tooth, and typically the entire procedure can be completed in about one to two hours. 

What is recovery like after PST?

Recovery after pinhole gum surgery will typically only take one day. With no incisions made during this gum recession treatment method, the holes in your gums heal reasonably quickly. Patients express feeling minimal-to-no discomfort following the procedure. However, we recommend that patients do not brush for a certain time as to not cause any unwanted pain or inflammation. We may also ask that you limit your diet to softer foods until the area fully heals.  

Does insurance cover PST?

Dental insurance usually covers all types of gum therapy because they fall under restoration procedures that are considered medically necessary. If you are seeking pinhole gum surgery due to cosmetic reasons, however, it may not be covered under your plan. We recommend that our patients reach out to their insurance provider before gum recession treatment. We also welcome patients to contact our Lakewood, CO office with any questions you may have about coverage, claim filing, or pinhole gum surgery options 

If you’re a Denver, CO resident looking for painless and comprehensive gum recession treatment, call 720-789-8716 today to schedule an appointment!

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