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 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 results

Is Chao Pinhole Surgery Covered by Insurance?

Whether or not Chao Pinhole Surgery is covered by insurance depends on the type of coverage you have. In most cases, this procedure is covered by most dental insurance plans. However, it is best to contact your insurance provider for more details on your current plan. This will give you more insight into what is covered and what is not.

Who Is Not a Good Candidate for Chao Pinhole Surgery?

Although Chao Pinhole Surgery can benefit those suffering from gum recession, some people may not be ideal candidates.

Below is a brief list of what can potentially disqualify you as a candidate for Chao Pinhole Surgery:

• •You have a habit of grinding your teeth.
• •Your gum tissue measures less than 2 to 3 mm.
• •You have a compromised immune system.
• •You currently smoke.
• •You have periodontal disease.

Dr. Ania Mohelicki will assess the health of your gums and your current oral health care during your consultation with him. She will ultimately determine whether or not you are a good candidate for the procedure. She can also recommend alternative treatments or steps you may be able to take to become eligible for the surgery.

How Long Does the Surgery Take To Complete?

Compared to gum grafting, which can take over an hour to complete, Chao Pinhole Surgery only takes 15 to 20 minutes on average per tooth. Depending on the condition of your gums, however, the procedure can take as long as a gum graft.

What Can I Eat During Recovery?

You can eat anything you like as you recover from Chao Pinhole Surgery. However, it is highly recommended you avoid foods that could potentially cause trauma to your gums. These foods can include nuts, chicken, steak, and chips. We recommend you only consume foods that do not impact the gums, such as yogurt, eggs, and steamed vegetables.

How Long Does It Take To Recover?

It takes roughly a day to recover from Chao Pinhole Surgery. This is thanks to the procedure being minimally invasive. As such, there are no wounds or incisions that require healing. The tiny holes that are made take about a day to heal.