PST™ is a non-invasive type of gum surgery which does not require any incisions or sutures. Instead, a small instrument is used to make a tiny pinhole sized entry point in the tissue. Then a special instrument is inserted and used to loosen the tissue so that it can be pulled over the exposed tooth. Since no incisions are being made, side effects such as pain, swelling, and bleeding are kept to a minimum. Additionally, patients will notice an instant improvement in the appearance of their smile.
How does it work?
The first step in PST™ is to clean the teeth in the area being treated. Then, the dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the area. Using a small instrument, a pinhole-sized entry point is made in the gums.
Once the area has been fully prepared to undergo gum surgery, the dentist will insert a specialized instrument into the tiny entry point that was made. Using this instrument, the tissue is slowly loosened and moved into the correct position. Finally, a different instrument is used to insert collagen strips through the entry point and into the gum tissue. This will help to keep the tissue in place while the area heals. The entire gum surgery should take no longer than one hour and can be applied to several teeth at once.
What are the benefits?
PST™ gives patients several benefits that no other gum surgery can. These include:
- No Incisions – Since this is not a tissue graft, there is no need to cut or remove any part of the gums.
- No Sutures – Tissue is held in place with collagen strips, rather than sutures.
- Minimal Pain – Patients will experience only minimal pain, swelling, or bleeding during and after the gum surgery.
- Instant Results – PST™ produces an instantly noticeable cosmetic improvement. The tiny entry point is barely apparent and should disappear the next day.
PST™ is a new, innovative way for us to treat gum recession. Patients suffering from receding gums can contact Dental excellence to learn more about PST™.
How does the Pinhole Surgical Technique™ (PST™) differ from traditional gum grafting?
Traditional gum recession treatments involve the use of donor tissue or soft tissue grafts in order to rebuild the gumline. This soft tissue would be sutured in place and would join with existing gum tissue as it healed.
While this traditional grafting treatment is effective, comparable results with better patient experience can be achieved through the Pinhole Surgical Technique™
What is Gum Recession?
Gum recession is a common effect of the periodontal disease. Gum recession occurs when the gums start to pull back from the roots of your teeth.
Gum recession can be brought on by a number of different causes. These include:
- Periodontal Disease – Plaque and bacterial build up can irritate the gum tissue and cause it to detach from the surfaces of your teeth.
- Aggressive Brushing – Patients who brush their teeth too hard run the risk of damaging the tissue. Eventually, the tissue can begin to wear down and expose the tooth root.
- Hormone Changes – Most women experience a significant rise in hormone levels during pregnancy. This can increase the chances of periodontal disease and receding gums.
- Misalignment – Misaligned teeth can cause problems with your bite that place extra pressure on your gums. Over time, this can lead to a receding gum line.
Gum Recession Prevention
Along with bad breath and gum pain, gum recession is often the result of a larger issue such as infection or misalignment. However, it is also fairly easy to prevent in many cases. Patients can follow these steps to avoid receding gums
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene
- Eat Healthily
- Avoid Oral Piercings
- Monitor Changes in Your Mouth
- Maintain Regular Exams and Cleanings
Importance of treating Gum Recession
Gum recession is considered a serious condition because it often leads to complicated dental problems. Without attention from a dentist, patients with gum recession may experience the following problems:
- Teeth that appear longer than normal
- Discoloration of the teeth near the gum line
- Rapid tooth decay of the roots
- Tooth Loss