Farmington Family and Implant Dentistry

Gum Recession Treatment Farmington

Pinhole® Surgical Technique

Gum recession is when the gums surrounding the teeth, often happening gradually, begin to pull back, exposing more of the tooth. Some people will say their teeth look “longer” when this happens. When the gum pulls back, small pockets take place between the gum and the tooth. In these pockets, harmful bacteria quickly builds up and, if not treated, can cause irreversible damage to both the gum tissue and bone. Our periodontist treats moderate to severe gum recession in Farmington with the Pinhole Surgical Technique.

Symptoms of Gum Recession:

Gum recession is very serious. It’s essential that if you notice any of the below symptoms, that you talk with your dentist or schedule an appointment right away.

Tooth sensitivity

Inflamed gums

Tender gums

Loose teeth

“Long” teeth

Bad breath

Gum Recession Before After

Causes of Gum Recession:

Smoking & tobacco use

Hormonal changes

Brushing too hard

Poor oral hygiene

Teeth grinding & clenching

Trauma to the mouth

Ill-fitting dentures

Genetics

Aging

Dr. El-Halaby Farmington Periodontist
Exceptional Patient Results

Are Your Gums Receding?

Identifying issues and starting treatment early for gum recession is crucial for good outcomes. Book a FREE consultation with our Periodontist, Dr. El-Halaby. 

Treating Gum Recession with Pinhole Surgery

If you or your dentist notices a tiny bit of recession, likely no treatment in the dental office will be done. The first steps will be not only to make sure you are brushing and flossing but that you are not brushing too hard. Being too aggressive with your toothbrush will cause gums damage. Proper oral hygiene, a healthy diet, quitting tobacco use, maybe getting new dentures, or sometimes increasing the number of dental cleanings a year is all that is needed to halt the recession.

If the gums have receded an excessive amount, Dr. El-Halaby will work with you to discover what the culprit is. To repair your gums, Dr. El-Halaby will likely perform the Pinhole® Surgical Technique. This is a minimally invasive technique that covers the exposed roots without the need for sutures or a gum graft.

Pinhole Surgical Technique

Conventional Gum Surgery

Previous to the Pinhole® Surgical Technique or for dentists not yet trained in this technique, the typical treatment would be a surgical procedure where a portion of the tissue from the roof of the mouth is placed over the exposed roots and sutured in place. Traditional gum recession treatment is quite uncomfortable for patients, requires a longer time in the dental chair, and takes longer to heal.

If you are experiencing gum recession, schedule an appointment with our dental office and we will evaluate your gums and determine the best course of action for you.

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