There’s a wonderful solution that is virtually painless, and requires no incisions and no surgery.  It’s called the Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique® and is the first minimally-invasive procedure to treat gum recession effectively.  Gum recession occurs when the tissue around the teeth begins to shrink away. The tooth root surface then becomes exposed, bringing a greater risk to your oral health. This can cause many different types of problems. As a periodontal specialty practice, Dr. Albather provides the most advanced care you need for a healthy, happy smile.

Most patients with receding gums do not realize that it is occurring, mostly because it happens over a long period of time.  Usually, there will be some sensitivity or the appearance of longer teeth. Gum recession can cause pockets to form between the teeth and gum line.  That allows harmful bacteria and tartar to accumulate in these pockets. This can lead to more advanced periodontal disease, tissue and bone deterioration, and even tooth loss.

The best way to prevent gum recession is to brush and floss every day using a proper technique and to keep up with your dental cleanings and checkups. But what if that’s not enough?

So, who is a good candidate for this procedure?

This is for those who want to restore their gum line and protect the roots of their teeth without surgery or the traditional grafting procedure.  Gums are treated in literally minutes – and the results are immediate.  Dr. Albather inserts a specialized instrument in the opening between the teeth and gum, where the gum tissue is gently loosened. Collagen strips are then placed into that specific area to hold the flap in place instead of sutures.  These collagen strips plump up the buccal and stabilize the tissue throughout the healing process. The results are dramatic and immediate.

What is the recovery time?

For six weeks after this procedure, brushing your teeth can irritate the gums.  You can use a prescription mouthwash instead.  Patients are seen the next day for an immediate follow-up to check healing time, a week later, then 3 and six weeks. After the 6^th week, you can use the Roll-Method of brushing with an extra soft toothbrush.  And for a short time after surgery, eat only soft foods.  There will be series of follow-up appointments, making sure you are healing properly. Since the blood supply is not cut during the procedure, most people heal quickly.

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 Dr. Albather to analyze if you are a good candidate for this – you’ll be glad you did.  Cascadia Dental Specialists – 425-644-7444.