The Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique: an expert’s guide

Gum recession can be a common problem which people experience due to a lack of care with dental hygiene. There are several surgical options available to treat this, including the relatively new  Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique.

Expert periodontist Dr Sulaman Anwar is here to explain what it is, how it differs from traditional gum grafting, and how it can benefit patients.

What is gum recession?

Gum recession refers to the loss of gum tissue along the gumline. This can happen due to periodontal disease (gingivitis, periodontitis, advanced periodontitis), the natural ageing process, or harsh brushing habits.

Why should gum recession be taken seriously?

Gum recession exposes the tooth's root structure, which can lead to tooth decay and other issues affecting the teeth along and beneath the gumline. Healthy gums are vital for a healthy mouth, so treating gum recession is crucial for maintaining good dental health.

Introducing the Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique

The Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique offers a minimally invasive solution for treating gum recession. Unlike traditional grafting methods, PST does not involve incisions or sutures. Invented and patented by John Chao, D.D.S., the Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation® (Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique) is a procedure that treats gum recession without using a scalpel or sutures.

How does PST differ from traditional gum grafing?

Conventional treatments for gum recession typically involve using donor tissue or soft tissue grafts to rebuild the gumline. The new tissue is stitched in place and gradually integrates with the existing gum tissue during the healing process.

Although this traditional grafting approach is effective, similar results accompanied by a more comfortable patient experience can be achieved using the Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique.

How is the Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique performed?

During this procedure, tiny holes are made in the gum tissue using a fine needle. Specially designed instruments are then used through these pinholes to gently reposition the gum tissue over the receded portion of the tooth. The technique focuses on adjusting the existing gum tissue, eliminating the need for cutting or stitching.

This results in minimal post-operative discomfort (pain, swelling, and bleeding). Most patients also are pleasantly surprised by the instant cosmetic improvement.

What are the benefits of the Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique?       

The Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique offers several advantages, including:

• Reduced discomfort for patients after treatment
• Quicker recovery compared to traditional grafting
• No need for uncomfortable sutures
• Avoids the use of scalpels or invasive surgical tools
• Eliminates the requirement to harvest tissue from the patient's palate
• Delivers excellent, natural-looking, and long-lasting results

If you are considering undergoing the Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique and would like to book a consultation with Dr Anwar, do not hesitate to do so by visiting his Top Doctors profile today.