Pinhole Surgical Technique in Lakewood, CO
At Colorado Advanced Dentistry, Dr. Mark Whatcott offers a minimally invasive solution for gum recession with the Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST) — a breakthrough alternative to traditional grafting. As one of the few dentists in the Lakewood area trained and licensed in this method, Dr. Whatcott uses a scalpel-free, suture-free approach that delivers immediate results, faster healing, and no need for cutting or stitches.
What is the Pinhole
Surgical Technique?
The Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST) is a minimally invasive treatment for gum recession — a common condition that exposes the roots of your teeth, making them look longer and feel more sensitive. Unlike traditional gum grafting, which uses tissue from the roof of your mouth and requires stitches, PST uses a tiny pinhole to reposition your existing gum tissue gently and naturally.
Using specialized instruments, Dr. Whatcott carefully loosens the tissue and slides it back into place to cover exposed roots. No cutting. No sutures. No grafting. The result is a healthier, more even gumline — often with immediate cosmetic improvement and little to no downtime.
Benefits of the Pinhole Surgical Technique
Minimally Invasive with Fast Recovery
No scalpels, sutures, or grafts — just a tiny pinhole. That means less bleeding, less swelling, and a quicker return to normal. Most patients feel little to no discomfort and recover within a day or two.
Immediate, Natural-Looking Results
Your gumline is restored during the same visit, with visible improvement right away. The results look and feel natural, helping you smile with confidence again.
Treats Multiple
Areas in One Visit
Unlike traditional grafting, which is limited by the amount of donor tissue, PST can treat several areas at once — making it ideal for patients with widespread gum recession.
Long-Lasting
Outcomes Without
Additional Surgery
With proper care, the results of PST are designed to last. Because it repositions your own tissue, there’s no need for follow-up grafting or additional procedures in most cases.
The PST Treatment
Process
1
Creating the Pinhole
Dr. Whatcott begins by using a small needle to create a tiny pinhole in the existing gum tissue. This entry point allows access to the area affected by gum recession without the need for cutting or sutures.
2
Repositioning the Gum Tissue
Through the pinhole, specialized tools gently loosen and move the gums into a healthier position, covering exposed roots.
3
Natural Healing
No sutures are needed. The gums begin healing almost immediately, with minimal discomfort or downtime.
FAQS
Have questions about the Pinhole Surgical Technique? Find answers here
What is the Pinhole Surgical Technique?
The Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST) is a minimally invasive treatment for gum recession that requires no cutting, stitches, or grafting. Instead, Dr. Whatcott creates a tiny pinhole in the gum tissue and uses specialized tools to gently loosen and reposition the gumline over the exposed tooth roots.
Why do patients choose the Pinhole Surgical Technique over traditional gum graft surgery?
- Immediate cosmetic improvement to the gumline
- Ability to treat multiple areas in one visit
- No need for tissue removal from the roof of the mouthFewer follow-up procedures, which saves time and cost
Who’s a good candidate for the Pinhole Surgical Technique?
Most patients with gum recession are great candidates for the Pinhole Surgical Technique, especially if you’re looking for a less invasive alternative to traditional gum grafting.
You may be a good fit for PST if you:
- Want to avoid cutting, stitches, or grafts
- Prefer a faster recovery and minimal discomfort
- Need treatment for multiple teeth in one visit
- Are looking for long-lasting, natural-looking results
- Want to avoid tissue removal from other areas of your mouth
Before moving forward, Dr. Whatcott will review your dental and medical history, evaluate your gum health, and talk with you about your long-term goals. To help protect your results, we’ll also identify any habits that contribute to gum recession — especially bruxism (teeth grinding), which puts pressure on the gums and is a common cause of both recession and gum disease.
How many visits will I need for the Pinhole Surgical Technique?
Most patients only need one visit to complete the Pinhole Surgical Technique. The exact length of your appointment depends on how many teeth are being treated, but even in cases with multiple areas of recession, the procedure is typically done in a single session. Dr. Whatcott will walk you through the plan during your consultation so you know exactly what to expect.
What is recovery like after the Pinhole Surgical Technique?
Recovery after PST is usually quick and comfortable. Because there’s no cutting or sutures involved, most patients feel minimal discomfort and are back to their normal routine within a day. The small entry points in the gum tissue heal naturally and without the need for special wound care.