Pinhole – Young Family & Cosmetic Dentistry

Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique in Centennial, Colorado.

A breakthrough treatment for gum recession

The Chao Pinhole®Surgical Technique, also known as Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation™, was invented and patented by John Chao, D.D.S.
It is a scalpel-free, suture-free, graft-free, minimally invasive procedure for correcting gum recession and saving teeth. Through a small hole made by a needle, specially designed instruments are used to gently loosen the gum tissue and glide it over the receded part of the tooth. Since there is no cutting or stitching, patients can expect minimal post-operative symptoms (pain, swelling, and bleeding). Patients are pleasantly surprised by the instant cosmetic improvement. Most patients are able to resume light normal activities within 24-48 hours after treatment. (excluding working out and strenuous activities).

What are the consequences of gum recession?

Gum recession is the process in which the margin of the gum tissue that protects the teeth wears away, or pulls back, exposing more of the tooth root. When gum recession occurs, “pockets”, or gaps form between the teeth and gum line, therefore, making it easy for disease-causing bacteria to build up and destroy teeth. If left untreated, the supporting tissue and bone structures of the teeth can be severely damaged and may ultimately result in tooth loss and even severe health consequences. Gum recession is a common dental problem and most people do not know that they have gum recession because it occurs gradually. The first sign of gum recession is usually tooth sensitivity or you may notice teeth that look longer than normal. Typically, a notch can be felt near the gum line. Do not ignore gum recession! Early detection and treatment are essential to maintaining overall health and saving teeth. If you think that your gums are receding, make an appointment immediately with a certified Pinhole®Surgical Technique dentist for an evaluation of your individual case.

Why Do Gums Recede?

These are bacterial gum infections that destroy gum tissue and the supporting bone that holds teeth in place. Gum disease is the main cause of gum recession and loss of teeth. Due to genetics, some people may be more susceptible to gum disease. In fact, studies show that 30% of the population may be predisposed to gum disease, regardless of how well they care for their teeth.

Top 10 Benefits of the Pinhole®procedure:

Can correct gum recession in as little as one treatment session.
Minimal discomfort and swelling in most cases because the method is scalpel-free, suture-free, and graft-free.
Long-term results per the International Journal of Periodontology & Restorative Dentistry. (October 2012)
The pinholes heal in 24 hours in most cases.
Only 2 over-the-counter pain pills are required after treatment on average per the study in the Int. Journal of Periodontology & Restorative Dentistry. (October 2012)
Can prevent tooth loss and the need for other costly procedures such as implants or dentures.
Treatment sessions can be completed in as little as 1-2 hours in many cases.
Can enhance a more youthful and attractive appearance.
Patients often describe feeling happier due to being able to smile without the shame or guilt associated with ugly receded gums.
Most patients are back to normal light activities within 24-48 hours post-procedure

Common Causes Of Gum Recession

Aggressive tooth brushing. Brushing teeth and gums too hard can cause gum recession.
Insufficient dental care. Inadequate brushing and flossing make it easy for plaque to turn into calculus (tartar) – a hard substance that builds on and between teeth. This type of plaque can only be removed by a professional dental cleaning.
Hormonal changes. Fluctuations in female hormone levels during a woman’s lifetime, such as in puberty, pregnancy, and meno pause can make gums more sensitive and more vulnerable to gum recession.
Tobacco products. Tobacco users are more likely to have sticky plaque on their teeth that is difficult to remove and can cause gum recession.
Grinding and clenching teeth. Clenching or grinding teeth can put too much force
on the teeth, causing gums to recede. Clenching during sleep is a common cause of gum recession.
Crooked teeth or a misaligned bite. When teeth do not come together evenly, excessive force can be placed on the gums and bone, allowing gums to recede.
Body piercing of the lip or tongue. Jewelry can rub the gums and cause irritation to the point that gum tissue is worn away.

Chao Pinhole® 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 Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique (PST)?

The Chao 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 Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique were created by Dr. John Chao, and who trained our doctor.

How does the Chao 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 Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique.

How is Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique (PST) performed?

During the Chao 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 Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique. It simply involves the adjustment of the existing tissue.

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

The benefits of the Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique are many:

Less discomfort for the patient after treatment
Faster recovery for the patient than traditional grafting
No need for uncomfortable sutures
No need for scalpels or invasive surgical tools
No need to take donor tissue from the patient’s palate
Excellent, natural-looking, long-lasting result

The Pinhole® Surgical Technique Is Internationally Acclaimed

The unique features of the Pinhole®Surgical Technique have aroused international interest on the part of the media. Over 240 TV stations around the world have featured this revolutionary, minimally invasive technique for treating a problem that is found in half of the U.S. population