Dentist in San Francisco, CA describes pinhole surgery
San Francisco, CA area patients who have receding gum lines caused by periodontal disease or even hereditary factors are encouraged to ask about gum grafting procedures that require no cutting or sutures such as the Pinhole Surgery Technique® available from Dr. Leo Arellano. Our dentist describes the procedure to patients and ensures them that it is one of the least invasive ways of enhancing the smile by improving the appearance of the gums.
How is this different from traditional gum grafting techniques?
Gum grafting is a treatment in which gum tissue is grafted where it is needed to achieve a more attractive gum line. Dr. Leo Arellano and his team of professionals find that while this can be a beneficial option for patients, the Pinhole Surgery Technique® makes the process far more effective while also being less invasive. Dr. Leo Arellano and his staff evaluate patients to see if they can benefit from this procedure. It is different, because it eliminates the need for cutting and sutures, which ensures faster healing and improved comfort for patients.
The process of pinhole surgery
First, patients are evaluated during their initial consultation appointment to find out if they are a proper candidate. Once patients have decided to have this procedure performed, they are welcome to book their oral surgery appointment. During this appointment, the dentist uses a special instrument that is inserted into the gum tissue and pulls it over the tooth. Then, when the gums are where they are best suited for improvements, the dentist will use tiny collagen strips underneath the tissues to stabilize the gums and help the gums heal extremely fast. Most patients will only need to use special rinses and mouthwashes following their appointment while the area heals, which can sometimes be overnight. Patients leave the office with their brand-new smile and enjoy the appearance of their gums in a more immediate fashion.
What are the benefits?
Pinhole Surgical Technique® has many advantages. It is:
- Safe
- Effective
- Less invasive
- Faster in healing/recovery
- Immediate results
When might patients need it?
Most patients who have gum recession, either due to gum disease or genetic factors, can ask about the pinhole surgical technique used as an alternative to traditional gum grafting procedures. It is best for patients to work with our team of professionals to determine if they are appropriate candidates. This is determined during the consultation appointment. Dr. Leo Arellano and his staff will consult with patients and help them decide if this is the best option for enhancing their smiles. Our professionals are dedicated to educating patients, so they can make a knowledgeable decision in regard to the treatments they want to consider.
Gum recession should never be ignored. It can cause damage to the gum tissue and also expose the teeth to the elements. Some patients may not even realize that their gum tissue is receding, but when they come in for their routine evaluations with our team, they are notified that gum disease is present. Gum disease can be a serious condition that can develop into an even more concerning stage that can wreak havoc on the smile. When left untreated, the disease can cause not only gum recession but gum loss, tooth loss, and bone loss. Once gum disease has begun, it can only be controlled and not cured, so speaking with a dentist on a regular basis and undergoing routine evaluations is the best way to stay on top of this condition before it develops.
Learn more about the Pinhole Surgical Technique® today!
Dr. Leo Arellano of San Francisco, CA is a professional who provides solutions for patients who need to address imperfections of the gum line. This is sometimes done with the Pinhole Surgical Technique® instead of traditional gum grafting. Our team will assess the smile and determine if it can benefit from this particular treatment. Call the office for an appointment by calling 415-881-4343 and scheduling a visit at 3030 Geary Boulevard. Our practice is here to help patients in and around the community and provide treatments that can improve the health and beauty of the smile!