FEATHERSTONE PERIODONTICS & IMPLANT DENTISTRY
Pinhole Surgical Technique
Over 35 years of experience with over 20,000 dental implants placed
& more than 60,000 dental surgeries performed
Pinhole Surgical Technique in Rockford, Dixon, Janesville, and Madison
Gum recession is when the gum tissue gradually pulls away from the teeth, exposing more of the tooth or its root. Some common signs include sensitivity, bleeding or inflamed gums, persistent bad breath, and teeth that appear longer than before. Without treatment, exposed roots may become more vulnerable to sensitivity, decay, and further tissue damage.
One minimally invasive option for treating certain cases of gum recession is the Pinhole Surgical Technique. Traditional gum grafting often involves taking tissue from the roof of the mouth and securing it over the area of recession. Although effective, this approach creates a second surgical site and may require a longer recovery period.
With the Pinhole Surgical Technique, the periodontist creates a small opening in the gum tissue and uses specialized instruments to gently reposition the gums over the exposed roots. Collagen strips are then placed beneath the tissue to help stabilize it and support healing. Because the procedure does not require tissue to be removed from the palate or extensive suturing, patients may experience less discomfort and a shorter recovery.
Schedule an Appointment at one of our 4 convenient locations
Rockford, ILLINOIS
1055 Featherstone Road, Suite B
Rockford, IL 61107
(815) 261-1739
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DIXON, ILLINOIS
629 North Galena Avenue, Suite 230
Dixon, IL 61201
(815) 261-1739
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JANESVILLE, WISCONSIN
111 North Main Street
Janesville, WI 53545
(608) 208-1576
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MADISON, WISCONSIN
220 W Broadway, Suite 200
Madison, WI 53716
(608) 716-3309
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DR. MARK LINDMAN
Dr. Lindman is a native of Rockford. Dr. Lindman received his professional degree of Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Illinois College of Dentistry. His graduate training in periodontics was completed at Northwestern University College of Dentistry Where he received a Certificate Degree in Periodontics and a Master of Science degree.
DR. JEFFERY BURCH
Dr. Burch grew up in Villa Park, IL. Dr. Burch attended Eastern Illinois University, where he majored in Biochemistry. Dr. Burch earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine. He received his Certificate Degree in Periodontics and Master of Science from Saint Louis University.
DR. BRANDON HULL
Dr. Hull grew up in Monmouth, IL. Dr. Hull earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Southern Illinois University and his Certificate in Periodontics from Saint Louis University, Department of Periodontics. While at Saint Louis University, Dr. Hull completed an anesthesia program and uses sedation and pain control techniques in his practice.
DR. KATRINE ANDREASEN
Dr. Andreasen grew up in Louisville, Kentucky and received her Bachelor of Arts in Biology from Clemson University. She attended the University of Louisville School of Dentistry to receive her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree. Dr. Andreasen continued there to complete a residency in Periodontics and earned a Master of Science in Dentistry.
DR. NOVIN PISHEVAR
Dr. Novin Pishevar grew up in Carol Stream, Illinois and received his Bachelor of Science degree in Interdisciplinary Health with a focus on aging populations from the University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana. After college, Dr. Pishevar received his dental education from the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
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Pinhole Surgical Technique Process Expectations
Prior to performing the Pinhole Surgical Technique procedure, we will conduct an in-depth dental and medical health history review in order to determine the underlying reason why Pinhole Surgical Technique is necessary. This process will include an examination of your bite and for any indications of loose teeth, bone loss, TMJ, oral cancer, or signs of periodontal disease.
Once the underlying cause has been identified and it is determined that Pinhole Surgical Technique is the appropriate treatment option for you, the Pinhole Surgical Technique procedure will typically begin with administration of a local anesthetic and/or sedation. Following this, small pinholes are made in your gum tissue, through which special instruments are used to reposition the remaining gum tissue over the areas that have receded. Once this tissue has been properly repositioned, collagen strips are placed into the pinholes to facilitate the healing process and keep the gum tissue in place.
Aftercare Following Pinhole Surgical Technique
Although the recovery process following Pinhole Surgical Technique is shorter than traditional treatment of gum recession, it is still important to take proper care of your wounds for the first six weeks. Avoid brushing over the surgical area, and avoid touching the area with your tongue, finger, or any other objects. It is also important to avoid flossing during this time, though you may use a Waterpik. To minimize post-procedural risks and ensure a speedy recovery, follow these and any additional post-operative instructions provided by your periodontist.
- To reduce pain or discomfort, take the recommended dosage of prescribed painkillers and/or over-the-counter medication.
- Avoid vigorous mouth rinsing and do not touch the wound.
- To reduce swelling, apply an ice bag over the area for ten to fifteen minutes at a time.
- Avoid intense physical activity and rest as much as possible for the first week.
- Eat soft foods such as applesauce, yogurt, pudding, or soup for the first ten days and slowly reintroduce harder foods as the healing process progresses.
- Continue practicing good oral self-care to avoid developing similar issues.
By following these instructions and continuing to keep your teeth and gums clean, you will enjoy a fast healing process and can return to your normal routine as quickly as possible.
Contact Featherstone
Please use the contact form for general practice inquiries only – specific patient care questions must be addressed with your doctor during a consultation appointment.
Cost of Pinhole Surgical Technique
The cost of Pinhole Surgical Technique will depend on several factors, such as whether dental sedation is used, the severity of your case, and your dental insurance plan. At Featherstone Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, we are committed to providing you with high-quality, comprehensive periodontal services, which is why we provide you with flexible payment options to ensure that you receive the care you require.
If you are covered under a dental insurance plan, we do ask that you bring your insurance cards and any necessary forms with you to your appointment. We are happy to provide a pre-estimate of dental benefits prior to treatment, and will submit any receipts, forms, or other information required by your insurance company. Once insurance payment has been received, the remaining balance will be mailed to you.
Please note: our office does offer a 5% reduction in fee for full payment at the time services are provided (contingent on treatment type). We also offer extended payment plans through GreenSky Patient Solutions or CareCredit. For your convenience, we accept cash, personal check, Visa, Discover, MasterCard, or American Express.
Periodontal Care You Can Trust at Featherstone
At Featherstone Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, we focus on early detection, effective at-home care, and conservative treatment. Although surgical options are available, we avoid surgery whenever possible.
To learn more about clinic policies or schedule an appointment for Pinhole Surgical Technique, contact our Rockford office at 815.261.1739, our Dixon office at 815.261.1739, our Janesville office at 608.208.1576, or our Madison office at 608.416.5205.