You know worn or stained teeth can make you look older than you feel. But your gums can also affect your appearance. As you age, your gums tend to recede. This gives your smile an older look. Fortunately, our dentists can use gum treatment to take years off your smile. 

In addition to affecting how your smile looks, gum recession can pose serious risks to your oral health. It leads to increased cavities and potential tooth loss if not addressed. While traditional gum grafts are a common treatment for advanced recession, our practice uses an innovative and less invasive solution: the Chao® Pinhole Technique.

Pinhole Procedure vs. Traditional Gum Graft

A traditional gum graft involves harvesting tissue from the roof of your mouth and suturing it onto the areas where gums have receded. 

In contrast, the Chao treatment is a minimally invasive option. This approach creates a small entry point in the gum tissue, allowing your dentist to gently reposition your existing gum tissue to cover exposed tooth roots. The final step is stabilizing the repair using collagen.

Identifying Gum Recession

If you notice that your teeth look elongated or suspect you might have gum recession, reach out to us at 707-934-3152. Our dentist will perform a comprehensive assessment to decide if treatment is warranted. Early-stage recession may often be treated effectively with deep cleaning.

The Pinhole Technique & Other Anti-Aging Solutions

At our practice, the pinhole treatment is just one of the many ways we can help you look younger. You’ll also find solutions for stained teeth, sagging cheeks, and thinning lips. If your gums have darkened or developed spots, your dentist can restore their healthy pink appearance with gingival peeling. 

The pinhole technique offers four key advantages over a traditional gum graft:

  • Quick Procedure – Often referred to as the “lunchtime gum lift,” this technique can typically be completed in about an hour. That’s much quicker than traditional grafting.
  • Reduced Discomfort – With no incisions or stitches required, most patients only need local anesthesia for comfort during the procedure.
  • Aesthetic Results – Unlike grafts that may introduce tissue that doesn’t match the natural gum color, the pinhole method uses your own tissue for a seamless appearance.
  • Swift Recovery – With minimal pain and swelling, you can quickly return to your daily routine. You’ll be able to enjoy your regular diet within a day or two, compared to the longer recovery times associated with gum grafts.

Interested in gum treatment or other solutions to help you look younger? Call Synergy Dental Group at 707-934-3152 today for an appointment in Sonoma, CA. You can also schedule online.