Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation
The Pinhole Surgical Technique restores receding gums through a tiny opening, with no scalpels, no sutures, and a faster recovery.
What pinhole gum rejuvenation includes
Care is always tailored to you. Here is what this typically covers at Korel Dentistry, explained clearly before we begin so there are no surprises.
- Scalpel-free gum treatment
- No sutures
- Faster recovery
- Natural-looking results
Receding gums, treated without a scalpel
When gums pull back, they expose the root of the tooth. That shows up as sensitivity to hot and cold, teeth that look longer than they used to, and roots that are more vulnerable to decay. Left alone it tends to keep going.
The Pinhole Surgical Technique corrects it without traditional surgery. Instead of cutting and stitching, we make a tiny opening about the size of a pinhead, then gently guide your existing gum tissue back down over the exposed root through it. There are no incisions, no sutures, and no grafts.
Because we are repositioning the gum tissue you already have rather than replacing it, the result looks like your own gum line, because it is. Several teeth can often be treated in a single appointment.
What happens during the procedure
The whole thing is done under local anesthetic in one visit, and most patients are surprised how quiet it is.
- 01
Comfort first
The area is thoroughly numbed before anything begins. Most patients report little to no discomfort throughout.
- 02
The pinhole entry
A tiny opening, roughly the size of a pinhead, is made in the gum to reach the treatment area. No incisions, no stitches.
- 03
Root surface smoothing
The exposed root surfaces are cleaned and polished before the gum is brought back over them.
- 04
Tissue repositioning
Special instruments gently mobilize your existing gum tissue and guide it down to cover the exposed roots.
- 05
Collagen stabilization
Collagen strips are placed through the same pinhole to support the gums and hold them in their new position while they settle.
- 06
Simple aftercare
You go home with straightforward instructions, including soft foods for a short stretch. No suture removal appointment, because there are no sutures.
Common questions
Is the pinhole procedure painful?
Most patients report little to no discomfort. The gums are fully numbed during the procedure, and because there are no incisions or stitches, recovery is typically smooth and comfortable.
How long is the recovery?
Healing begins immediately, and most patients are back to normal activities within 24 to 48 hours. Minor swelling or tenderness is possible but usually settles quickly.
Am I a candidate?
Good candidates typically have gum recession, exposed roots, or sensitivity, and want to avoid traditional gum grafting. An evaluation is the only way to know for sure, and it starts with mapping exactly where the recession is.
How is this different from a gum graft?
Traditional grafting involves incisions and sutures. The pinhole technique repositions the gum tissue you already have through a tiny opening instead, which is why there is no cutting, no stitching, and far less downtime.
Will the results look natural?
Yes, because we are moving your own gum tissue rather than replacing it with something else. The collagen placed through the pinhole supports the new position over the long term.
Still have a question? Call us at (619) 444-3393 and talk it through with a real person, no pressure either way.
01
Gentle by default
Comfort-first care and sedation options for anxious patients.
02
Honest planning
Clear recommendations and costs before any treatment starts.
03
Modern technology
3D imaging and digital tools for precise, minimally invasive care.
Ready for a dentist who listens?
New patients and same-day emergencies welcome. Book online in under a minute, or call and talk to a real person at the front desk.