Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST)

Cosmetic Dentist in South Side Chicago

Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique™ – A breakthrough treatment for gum recession

The Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST®™), invented and patented by John Chao, D.D.S., is an incision-free, suture-free procedure for treating gum recession. Through a small pinhole made by a needle, Dr. Chao uses specially designed instruments to gently loosen the gum tissue and glide it over the receded part of the tooth. Since there is no incision or suturing, patients can expect minimal post-operative symptoms (pain, swelling and bleeding). Most patients also are pleasantly surprised by the instant cosmetic improvement.

The unique features of the Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique®™ have aroused keen interest on the part of the media. So far news programs at 33 TV stations have featured this incision-free technique of treating a problem that is found in half of the U.S. population (JADA, 2003). Dr. Chao made a guest appearance on the Dr. Steve Show, which was, broadcasted nation-wide during the week of September 15-22, 2013.

Dr. Chao was granted a patent on the PST®™ method and another on the PST®™ instruments by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. For more information, please also see “The Pinhole Surgical Technique®™, A Novel Approach to Root Coverage,” as published in October, 2012 issue of The International Journal of Periodontics and Restorative Dentistry, a high-impact, peer-review journal. (Int J Periodontics Restorative Dent 2012;32:521-531.)

If you would like more information on the Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique®™, please contact us.

CHAO PINHOLE GUM REJUVENATION™ FEATURED ON “THE DOCTORS” SHOW JAN. 21, 2014

The Chao Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation™ and Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique™ was featured on the national TV Show, “The Doctors”. The segment was called, “The Lunchtime Gum Lift™” and featured a patient who had 10 recessions treated in under one hour by Dr. John Chao. You can view the segment below.

FAQ’s

What is gum recession?

Gum recession refers to the loss of gum tissue along the gumline. This can occur as a result of periodontal disease (gingivitis, periodontitis, advanced periodontitis), the natural aging process, or abrasive habits when it comes to brushing the teeth.

Why should gum recession be taken seriously?

When gum recession occurs, the root structure of the tooth becomes exposed. This means that tooth decay and other problems can affect the teeth along the gumline and beneath it. Since healthy gums are essential for a healthy mouth, getting gum recession treated is important for lasting dental wellness.

What is the Pinhole Surgical Technique™ (PST™)?

The Pinhole Surgical Technique™ is a minimally invasive option for treating gum recession. Unlike traditional grafting techniques, PST™ is incision and suture free.

All of the tools and techniques used to perform the Pinhole Surgical Technique™ were created by Dr. John Chao, and who trained our doctor.

How does the Pinhole Surgical Technique™ (PST™) differ from traditional gum grafting?

Traditional gum recession treatments involve the use of donor tissue or soft tissue grafts in order to rebuild the gumline. This soft tissue would be sutured in place and would join with existing gum tissue as it healed.

While this traditional grafting treatment is effective, comparable results with better patient experience can be achieved through the Pinhole Surgical Technique™.

How is Pinhole Surgical Technique™ (PST™) performed?

During the Pinhole Surgical Technique™, a needle is used to make a small hole in the patient’s existing gum tissue. Through this pinhole, special instruments are used to gently loosen the gum tissue. These tools help expand and slide the gumline to cover the exposed root structure.

There are no grafts, no sutures, and no incisions needed with the Pinhole Surgical Technique™. It simply involves the adjustment of the existing tissue.

What are the benefits of Pinhole Surgical Technique™ (PST™)?

The benefits of the Pinhole Surgical Technique™ are many: