While gum recession is usually viewed as one of the symptoms of gum disease, it can also be caused by insufficient tooth brushing, overly aggressive tooth brushing, or from certain medications that can affect gum health. Gum recession can even be caused by orthodontic treatments and appliances like braces or retainers.
Additionally, gum recession often results in root sensitivity to hot and cold foods. There is also an unsightly appearance of the gum and tooth. When significant gum recession develops, the gums can predispose to worsening recession and expose the root surface. The root is softer than enamel and can lead to root caries (cavities) and root gouging.
When gum recession occurs, the body loses a natural defense against both bacterial penetration and trauma. When gum recession is a concern, gum grafting reconstruction techniques or The Pinhole Surgical Technique are an option.
A gum graft is a solution that solves the concern of gum recession. The periodontist takes a thin piece of tissue from the roof of the mouth to graft over the receded gum. Another option is to gently move gum tissue over from an adjacent area to provide a stable band of attached gum around the tooth. The gum graft covers the exposed portion of the root to provide support protection to the tooth. The gum graft procedure is highly successful and results in a stable, healthy band of attached tissue around the tooth.
The Pinhole Surgical Technique PST™ is a procedure in which Dr. Herman and Dr. Biner use specialized instruments to make a small hole in your gum and add collagen material which stabilizes the area of gum recession. This new method is simple, suture-free and minimally invasive. It reduces post-procedure swelling, faster healing, and almost instant results in the restoration of your smile.
It periodontal disease is allowed to progress into a severe infection, the supporting tissues are destroyed and teeth are lost. Over a period of time, missing teeth can cause your jaw bone to atrophy, or resorb. This often results in poor quality and quantity of bone as well as long term shifting of remaining teeth and changes to facial structure. Fortunately, today we have the ability to stop and heal gum disease, and we can grow bone where it is needed. This not only gives us the opportunity to place dental implants of proper length and width to restore the function and beauty of your full smile, but it also gives us a chance to restore the aesthetic appearance of your smile and the fullness of your cheeks, jaw, and facial balance.