Dentists in San Francisco, CA explain the benefits of gum grafting after periodontal disease

When patients have had periodontal disease, they may experience gum recession due to the tissues shrinking from the infection. However, gum recession doesn’t have to be permanent. Patients in the San Francisco, CA area who visit Dr. Leo Arellano will be able to learn about the ways in which the smile can be restored after periodontal disease has affected the soft tissues. Gum grafting is a common treatment that can be used to improve the gum line.
What is gum grafting?
Gum grafting is a procedure performed by our professionals to help in adding gum tissue where it has been lost from periodontal disease. One new method of treatment is with the Chao Pinhole® surgical technique. This is a less invasive way of bringing down the gums over the teeth. This is not actually a form of gum grafting as it is a minimally invasive treatment for gingival recession. The Pinhole® technique allows the dentist to make a special flap from further up in the gums and bring it downward over the teeth, eliminating the need for sutures. This means less bleeding and faster healing. This is different from traditional gum grafting, which requires the patient to have gum tissue transferred from the roof of the mouth or use donated tissue sutured onto the gum tissue. This is more invasive and does require additional healing time. However, with the Chao Pinhole® surgical technique, patients can enjoy faster results.
Actual Patient Pictures Shown Before and After Treatment


Who is a candidate?
Patients who have otherwise healthy gums that can be brought down and allowed to heal are considered appropriate candidates for this alternative to gum grafting. This is determined with a full examination by Dr. Leo Arellano and his team and may include not only a physical evaluation but also x-rays. Patients who have had periodontal disease will need to work with their dentist to ensure that the condition has been fully treated before considering restorative services such as this.
What are the benefits of Chao Pinhole® surgical technique?

- Less bleeding
- No sutures
- Faster healing and recovery
- Use of existing gum tissue
At what point in my dental journey should I have gum procedures performed?
Before undergoing treatments such as the Chao Pinhole® surgical technique, patients should make sure their smile is healthy. They must also work with their dentist to learn how they can maintain their oral health and wellness to help in reducing the need for further treatments later. Our practice can work with patients to help them in deciding the best time to have their restorative procedure performed.
Discuss the benefits of gum grafting and the Chao Pinhole® surgical technique with us today
At Dr. Leo Arellano General and Cosmetic Dentistry in San Francisco, CA, patients have a variety of treatment options to choose from to improve their oral health and wellness. We welcome patients in and around the community to discuss treatment of gum recession after periodontal disease with our team by scheduling an appointment at 415-881-4343 and visiting the office at 3030 Geary Boulevard.