If you’re suffering from receding gums, this not only impacts your smile and confidence, but can also lead to other problems. Untreated gum recession can cause sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks, a heightened risk of cavities, and new or worsening gum disease. Healthy gums fit snugly around the visible part of your tooth (crown). Gum recession occurs when the edge of your gum tissue (the gingival margin) moves away from the crown of your tooth. This results in inadequate jawbone covering the root of your tooth. SLC Family Dental offers two proven treatment options for gum recession in Salt Lake City, UT. Founder Dr. Robert Palmer has extensive training and expertise helping patients with mild to severe gum recession, including the innovative Pinhole® Surgical Technique.
During this surgical procedure, we take a small piece of gum tissue from a different place in your mouth and use it to cover the exposed tooth roots. Over time, this new tissue will integrate with the surrounding tissue to form an even and healthy gum line. The goals of this surgery include preventing bone loss, stopping gums from receding farther, protecting previously exposed tooth roots from decay, and sculpting a more appealing smile.
Dr. Palmer is trained in the patented Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique, a scalpel-free, suture-free procedure. First, Dr. Palmer makes a small hole in your gum tissue below the recession site. Then using specially designed instruments, he gently loosens, guides, and reshapes gum tissue over the receded part of your tooth. Collagen strips are used instead of sutures to secure your gums. The primary benefit of this innovative technique is minimal post-operative pain, swelling, and bleeding. The bonus is the instant gratification of beautifully sculpted gums!