How to Properly Treat Your Receding Gums

Are you realizing that your gums are beginning to recede, and you aren’t sure what to do about it? Lucky for you a wonderful solution exists that is virtually painless, and requires no incisions and no surgery.

At Cascadia Dental Specialists we offer the Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique®, — a minimally-invasive procedure to treat gum recession effectively. For those also concerned about gum discoloration, gum depigmentation offers a cosmetic option to restore your gums to a uniform, beautiful pink tone.

[Related: Your Guide to Tissue Grafts]

What is Gum Recession?

Gum recession occurs when the tissue around the teeth begins to shrink away, often due to poor oral hygiene, aggressive brushing, or untreated gum disease. 

This can increase the risk of oral health issues and lead to:

• Tooth sensitivity
• Higher chances of decay or damage
• Changes in the appearance of your smile

Early detection and treatment are key to preventing further complications.

Common Signs of Gum Recession

Gum recession often goes unnoticed and may begin as a subtle sign of gum disease. However, you may notice:

• Increased sensitivity: Especially to hot, cold, or sweet foods.
• Longer-looking teeth: As gums pull back, more of the tooth becomes visible.

Why Gum Recession Is a Problem

• Pockets can form between the teeth and gum line.
• These pockets trap bacteria and tartar, which can lead to:
  • Advanced periodontal disease
  • Tissue and bone loss
  • Tooth loss, in which case our team offers dental implants in Bellevue as a long-term replacement solution.

Early detection is key to preventing further damage.

[Related: Understanding Gum Disease]

How to Prevent Gum Recession

The best way to prevent gum recession is to brush your teeth and floss every day using a proper technique as part of a consistent oral care routine focused on maintaining healthy gums.

You should also keep up with your regular dental cleanings and checkups.

Candidates for the Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique

The Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique is for those who want to restore their gum line and protect the roots of their teeth without surgery or the traditional grafting procedure.

This procedure treats gums in literally minutes—and the results are immediate. 

For patients who need more extensive tissue repair, we also offer gum graft surgery in Bellevue as an alternative treatment option.

Chao Pinhole Surgery Process

What to Expect During the Procedure

The doctor will gently loosen the gum tissue by inserting a specialized instrument between the teeth and gum. Instead of using sutures, collagen strips are placed to secure the flap. These strips help by:

• Plumping the tissue: Giving the gum a fuller appearance.
• Stabilizing the area: Supporting proper healing.

The results are both dramatic and immediate.

[Related: Five Signs You May Need Endodontic Surgery]

Pinhole Surgery Recovery Time

First 6 Weeks

Avoid Brushing: Brushing can irritate the gums. Use a prescription mouthwash instead.Follow-Up Visits:

• Day after surgery
• 1 week later
• 3 weeks later
• 6 weeks after the procedure

After 6 Weeks

Start brushing again using the Roll Method with an extra-soft toothbrush. Gently rotate the brush from the gum line down to the tooth.

Eating Tips

• Stick to soft foods for a short period after surgery to protect the healing gums.

Thanks to the blood supply remaining intact during the procedure, recovery is generally quick and smooth for most patients.

Contact Cascadia Dental Specialists Today!

This has been an amazing procedure for those in need of periodontal work. It’s a permanent solution, without the traditional surgery.

Set up an appointment with Cascadia Dental Specialists in Bellevue, WA today to analyze if you are a good candidate for this – you’ll be glad you did.