Our Periodontist Offers the Pinhole Surgical Technique for Gum Recession
Gum recession is a common dental concern, and if you’re noticing your gums pulling back from your teeth, exposing more of your tooth or root, you’re not alone. For residents of Melbourne, FL, and surrounding areas like Palm Bay, Viera, and Cocoa Beach, gum recession can be more than just a cosmetic issue—it can lead to sensitivity, tooth decay, and even tooth loss if left untreated. Fortunately, advancements in periodontal care have introduced minimally invasive solutions like the Pinhole Surgical Technique, a revolutionary, scalpel-free approach to treating gum recession.
If you’ve been searching for “gum recession treatment near me” in Melbourne, FL, discover how our treatments could be the answer you’ve been looking for, and how Dr. Lee Sheldon can help. To schedule an appointment with our Melbourne periodontist, contact Sheldon and Furtado, PLLC, today at (321) 259-8000.
What Is Gum Recession and Why Does It Happen?
Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue surrounding your teeth wears away or pulls back, exposing the tooth root. This can make your teeth appear longer, cause sensitivity to hot or cold, and increase the risk of decay or damage to the exposed root. For many individuals, gum recession can affect their confidence in their smile and overall oral health.
What Causes Gum Recession?
Gum recession can result from a variety of factors, including:
- Periodontal Disease: The leading cause of gum recession, gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis) can erode gum tissue and bone if untreated.
- Aggressive Brushing: Brushing too hard or using a toothbrush with hard bristles can wear down gum tissue over time.
- Genetics: Some people are predisposed to thinner gum tissue, making them more susceptible to recession.
- Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Chronic grinding or clenching can put pressure on gums, causing them to recede.
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate brushing or flossing can lead to plaque buildup, contributing to gum disease and recession.
- Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, menopause, or other hormonal shifts can affect gum health.
- Tobacco Use: Smoking or chewing tobacco can damage gums and accelerate recession.
- Misaligned Teeth: Uneven teeth can put uneven pressure on gums, leading to recession in certain areas.
Are you concerned about gum recession? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Lee Sheldon today at our Melbourne, FL, dental office by calling (321) 259-8000.
Pinhole Surgical Technique at Sheldon and Furtado, PLLC
The Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST) is a cutting-edge, minimally invasive procedure that treats gum recession without the need for scalpels, sutures, or grafts. Developed by Dr. John Chao, this technique allows periodontists like Dr. Lee Sheldon to reposition existing gum tissue over exposed tooth roots through a tiny pinhole, offering a faster, more comfortable alternative to traditional gum grafting.
The Pinhole Surgical Technique is performed in a few simple steps:
- Local Anesthesia: A local anesthetic is applied to keep you comfortable and pain-free.
- Pinhole Creation: Dr. Sheldon creates a small pinhole (about the size of a needle) in the gum tissue near the affected area.
- Gum Repositioning: Using specialized tools, our Melbourne periodontist gently loosens and slides the gum tissue to cover the exposed tooth roots.
- Collagen Support: Small collagen strips are inserted through the pinhole to stabilize the repositioned gums during healing.
- Rapid Recovery: With no cutting or stitching, most patients experience minimal discomfort and can resume normal activities within hours.
The procedure typically takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on the extent of recession, and offers immediate cosmetic improvements with minimal downtime.
Why Dr. Lee Sheldon May Recommend This Treatment
Patients get to experience many favorable benefits with the Pinhole Surgical Technique treatment:
- No Scalpels or Sutures: The minimally invasive approach reduces trauma to the gums.
- Quick Recovery: Most patients return to their routines within 24 to 48 hours.
- Immediate Results: Your gums will look healthier and more even right after the procedure.
- Minimal Discomfort: PST causes less pain and swelling compared to traditional grafting.
- Multiple Teeth Treated: PST can address several areas of recession in one session.
- Long-Lasting Outcomes: With proper care, the results can last for years.
Do you need a periodontal disease evaluation? Contact the best periodontist in Melbourne today at (321) 259-8000.
How to Prevent Gum Recession
While the Pinhole Surgical Technique is highly effective, preventing gum recession is key to long-term oral health. Here are some tips from our periodontist:
- Use a Soft Toothbrush: Brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid gum damage.
- Floss Regularly: Clean between teeth daily to prevent plaque buildup.
- Visit Your Dentist: Schedule regular cleanings with your Melbourne, FL dentist or our periodontists.
- Address Teeth Grinding: Ask our periodontist near you about a custom nightguard if you grind your teeth.
- Avoid Tobacco: Quit smoking or chewing tobacco to protect your gums.
- Eat a Balanced Diet: Foods rich in vitamins C and K support healthy gums.
Achieve Healthier Gums with Our Melbourne Periodontist Near You
Gum recession doesn’t have to define your smile or oral health. With the Pinhole Surgical Technique, Dr. Lee Sheldon offers a minimally invasive, highly effective solution to restore your gums and protect your teeth.
To schedule an appointment, contact our dental office in Melbourne, FL, today at (321) 259-8000.