Gum Recession Treatment - Nashville, TN

The Alternative To Gum Grafting

Gum grafts used to be the only way to treat gum recession, but they caused many patients discomfort because of their invasive nature. Today, Dr. L. Temp Sullivan of Belle Meade Family Dentistry offers a revolutionary new process, the Pinhole Surgical Technique™ (PST), to individuals who want a minimally invasive, zero-incision method to solve their receding gum problems.

Common Gum Recession Questions

What is gum recession?

Gum recession refers to the loss of tissue along the gum line. This can occur as a result of periodontal diseases such as gingivitis, periodontitis or advanced periodontitis. Recessed gums can also be caused by the natural aging process or abrasive teeth brushing.

Why should gum recession be taken seriously?

When gum recession occurs, the root structure of the tooth becomes exposed. This means tooth decay and other problems can affect the teeth along the gumline and beneath it. Since healthy gums are essential for a healthy mouth, getting gum recession treated is important for lasting dental wellness.

What is the Pinhole Surgical Technique™ (PST™)?

The Pinhole surgical Technique is a minimally invasive option for treating gum recession. Unlike traditional grafting techniques, PST™ is incision and suture free. All of the tools and techniques used to perform the Pinhole Surgical Technique™ were created by Dr. John Chao. Dr. Sullivan has been trained in the PST™ gum rejuvenation technique.

How does PST™ differ from traditional gum grafting?

Traditional gum recession treatments involve the use of donor tissue or soft tissue grafts in order to rebuild the gumline. This soft tissue would be sutured in place and would join with existing gum tissue as it healed. While this traditional grafting treatment is effective, comparable results with better patient experience can be achieved through the Pinhole Surgical Technique™.

How is PST™ performed?

During the Pinhole Surgical Technique™, a needle is used to make a small hole in the patient’s existing gum tissue. Through this pinhole, special instruments are used to gently loosen the gum tissue. These tools help expand and slide the gumline to cover the exposed root structure. There are no grafts, no sutures and no incisions needed with the Pinhole Surgical Technique™. It simply involves the adjustment of the existing tissue.

What are the benefits of Pinhole Surgical Technique™?

Less discomfort for the patient after treatment
Faster recovery for the patient than traditional grafting
No need for uncomfortable sutures
No need for scalpels or invasive surgical tools
No need to take donor tissue from the patient’s palate
Excellent, natural-looking, long-lasting results

Treat Your Receding Gums and Reap the Rewards

You will see immediate results

Healthier Gums

The roots of your teeth will be covered by healthy gum tissue. This minimizes the chance of developing or worsening periodontal (gum) disease.

Better Appearance

Your teeth will have a more uniform look. Often, receding gums lead to a “long in the tooth” appearance. When the gums are brought into proper placement, they make the teeth appear normal-sized.

Healthier Gums from Belle Meade Family Dentistry - Nashville, TN

Less Inflammation

Your gums will be healthier. Have you noticed that your gums are bleeding or red? After the Pinhole Surgical Technique™ (PST), your gums will be pink and soft, not inflamed or likely to bleed while eating or drinking.

Learn More About This Revolutionary Treatment

Call (615) 237-7338 today for a free consultation

How the PST Treatment Works

The Pinhole Surgical Technique™ (PST) was pioneered by Dr. John Chao, and can only be used by dentists such as Dr. Sullivan who have been trained on the procedure. Unlike a gum graft where incisions and sutures are necessary, the Pinhole Surgical Technique™ (PST) only requires that the dentist make a small hole in the affected gums.

Through the hole, the dentist manipulates specialized equipment to gently move the gums to a more pleasing, proper position. This both stimulates the gums and protects the root of the tooth. Numerous areas of the mouth can be treated during one session, and the positive results are obvious instantly.

After the Pinhole Surgical Technique™ (PST) is finished, the patient may feel slight discomfort at the site. This can be minimized with over-the-counter remedies such as ibuprofen, aspirin, or acetaminophen. Dr. Sullivan will advise you as to the proper course of action depending on your unique patient history.

Gum Grafting vs. Pinhole Surgical Technique - Nashville, TN

Do you want to learn more about this alternative to gum grafting? Contact our Nashville, TN, office today at (615) 237-7338.

WHY WAIT? - With one call to our Nashville, TN, office, you can start the process to become a Belle Meade Family Dentistry patient. Call us at 615-237-7338 today!

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Tennessee Dental Association American Dental Association Academy of General Dentistry American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry American Academy of Implant Dentistry Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation Six Month Smiles