| ✅ Reviewed by Dr. Tom McCawley | 🕒 Reading time: three minutes |
If your teeth are starting to look longer or feel more sensitive, you may be experiencing gum recession.
This condition happens when the gum tissue pulls away from the tooth surface, exposing the root and creating both cosmetic and health concerns. Left untreated, receding gums can increase the risk of tooth decay, sensitivity, and even tooth loss.At McCawley Center for Laser Periodontics & Implants, we offer a less invasive way to correct gum recession without the need for scalpels or stitches. It’s called the Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST™), and it allows us to gently reposition your existing gum tissue to protect your teeth and restore a natural-looking smile.
What Is the Pinhole Surgical Technique?
The Pinhole Surgical Technique is a breakthrough in gum recession treatment that offers a minimally invasive alternative to traditional gum grafting.
Instead of cutting tissue from the roof of your mouth and suturing it into place, this method uses a tiny pinhole in the gum to gently loosen and slide the tissue into a healthier position. There are no open wounds and no need for sutures.
Benefits of Pinhole Surgical Technique
Patients who choose the Pinhole technique often do so because they want to avoid the pain and recovery time of traditional gum surgery. Common benefits include:
- No cutting or stitches
- No need to harvest tissue from the palate
- Faster healing and minimal downtime
- Less discomfort during and after the procedure
- Immediate cosmetic improvement
- Multiple teeth can be treated in one visit
The technique is designed to protect your natural tooth structure while improving both function and appearance.
What Causes Gum Recession?
Gum recession can develop gradually over time and may be linked to several factors, including:
- Periodontal (gum) disease
- Aggressive brushing or improper flossing technique
- Genetics
- Orthodontic treatment
- Teeth grinding or clenching
- Smoking or tobacco use
If caught early, gum recession can be treated before it causes permanent damage. The Pinhole technique offers a way to reverse recession without undergoing surgery.
For a more in-depth explanation, read What Causes Receding Gums? A Closer Look at a Common Dental Concern.
What to Expect During Treatment
Every procedure at our Fort Lauderdale office begins with a thorough exam to determine whether you’re a candidate for the Pinhole Surgical Technique.
Step 1: Diagnosis
We evaluate your gum and bone structure, measure the level of recession, and determine whether there is enough healthy tissue to reposition.
Step 2: Anesthetic
Sedation options are available to ease any anxiety and the area is numbed to ensure you are comfortable throughout the procedure.
Step 3: Pinhole Access
A small entry point, about the size of a ballpoint pen tip, is made in the gum tissue near the recessed area.
Step 4: Tissue Repositioning
Using specially designed instruments, we gently loosen the gum tissue and guide it over the exposed root surfaces.
Step 5: Collagen Stabilization
Small strips of collagen are inserted to help support the repositioned tissue and promote healing.
Most treatments take about one to two hours depending on how many teeth are involved. Patients typically return to normal activity in the next few days.
Expertise You Can Trust
We are among the first in the country to offer the Pinhole Surgical Technique and remain one of the only practices in South Florida certified in advanced pinhole procedures. Dr. Mark McCawley is one of just 35 clinicians worldwide with advanced Chao Pinhole certification.
Our goal is to provide treatment options that preserve your natural teeth, avoid unnecessary surgery, and deliver long-term results with minimal discomfort.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are concerned about receding gums and want a less invasive solution, we can help. The Pinhole Surgical Technique is a proven option for restoring gum coverage and protecting your smile without the need for traditional surgery.
To book an appointment at our periodontal office in Fort Lauderdale, FL, call (954) 807-4829 or visit us at 800 East Broward Blvd #706 Fort Lauderdale, FL.
FAQs
Most patients return to normal activities within several days. There are no stitches to remove, and the small pinhole heals quickly. Mild swelling or sensitivity may occur but usually resolves within a few days.
With proper home care and regular dental visits, the results are long-lasting. The repositioned tissue remains stable and less likely to recede again, especially if underlying risk factors are addressed.
The procedure is performed under local anesthetic and is generally well tolerated. Patients report little to no discomfort during or after the treatment.
One of the advantages of this method is that multiple teeth can be treated in a single visit, making it much more convenient than traditional grafting.
If you are in the Fort Lauderdale area, the McCawley Center for Laser Periodontics & Implants offers expert care using the Pinhole Surgical Technique. Schedule a consultation to learn if this treatment is right for you.
