Pinhole Technique FAQ’s

What is The Pinhole Surgical Technique for Gums?

The Pinhole Technique is a specialty procedure for repairing gum recession. The procedure is a minimally invasive dental procedure used to straighten or correct uneven or receding gum lines along the crown of the tooth. Small holes are made in the gum above the teeth where recession has occurred, after which the gum is massaged loose using a specialty tool. The gums are then pushed or pulled into place. The holes are then filled with collagen which is then worked in under the gum to keep it in place.

Who is Allowed to Perform The Pinhole Procedure?

Only Board Certified Periodontists who have passed the extra training to perform the procedure should be allowed to carry it out. Dr Stoner is the only Board Certified Periodontist in Columbus who offers the Pinhole Technique and has been fully qualified to do so by Dr. Chao. Periodontists specialize in the gums and have been through a minimum three years additional schooling in order to be the best qualified in an understanding of your gum’s health and restoration.

Does The Pinhole Rejuvenation Hurt?

A local anaesthetic will be used to numb the area that Dr. Stoner will work on, but it is a very non-invasive procedure.

Does it involve surgery and stitches?

There will not be any cutting or suturing during this gum repairing surgical technique. This is one of the best aspects of the Pinhole Surgical Technique, that there are no stitches. Because of not having stitches in the mouth, the recovery time of the Pinhole procedure is practically non-existent.

How long does the procedure take?

Where traditional gum recession surgery can take around 2 hours to repair 1-2 teeth, the Pinhole Technique allows Dr. Stoner to work on up to 14 teeth at the same time. It should not take more than 10 minutes per tooth/pinhole made, and the gums of up to 3 teeth can be repaired with one pinhole. Please note: this is a variable and each individual situation can be different.

How long will it take for me to recover from the procedure?

Most patients recover within a day. It also only takes around a day for the tiny holes to disappear. There are no open wounds or incisions, so recovery is not really an issue.

How long will the repairs last?

The Pinhole Technique is a permanent gum line correction. Although aging, genetics and over-brushing of the gum line are known to be factors in a receding gum line.

Can I Brush and Floss After The Pinhole Surgical Technique Procedure?

We recommend not brushing the gums for a minimum of 24 hours and to refrain from flossing the gum line for the same period of time. This does not mean your teeth have to be neglected for this period just make sure to stay away from the treated areas of your gums.