What is the Chao Pinhole Technique?
The Chao Pinhole Technique is a minimally invasive, scalpel-free, and suture-free alternative to gum graft surgery. This non-surgical gum rejuvenation procedure treats receding gums to restore the health and appearance of your smile.
To perform the Chao Pinhole Technique, your periodontist uses a thin needle to make small holes in your gums. They then use specially designed dental instruments to gently pull your receding gum tissue toward your teeth.
Who needs the Chao Pinhole Technique?
The Chao Pinhole Technique is an ideal solution for treating gum recession. There are many reasons you may have receding gums, such as:
- Periodontal disease (gum disease)
- Genetics
- Poor oral hygiene
- Pregnancy
- Menopause
- Teeth grinding
- Smoking
- Crooked teeth
- Aggressive tooth brushing
Most people don’t realize they have receding gums until their teeth look noticeably longer. Gum recession develops gradually, but early signs include tooth sensitivity and, later, loose or shifting teeth.
Without treatment, receding gums can lead to tooth loss. These tooth-supporting tissues are meant to hold your teeth firmly in place. As they start to recede, your gums may not be able to support your teeth as well as they should.
What happens during the Chao Pinhole Technique?
After numbing your gums with anesthesia, your periodontist creates tiny pinholes in the tissue above your receding gums. They then insert small dental instruments that create a flap of tissue. Your periodontist pulls this gum tissue over your exposed tooth roots to protect them from damage.
Rather than using sutures, your periodontist at Santa Monica Bay Periodontics inserts thin collagen strips through the pinholes in your gums to promote natural healing.
What are the benefits of the Chao Pinhole Technique?
Many people are fearful of traditional gum graft surgery because it’s invasive and results in a long recovery period. If you have traditional gum surgery, it can take several weeks to fully heal. In the days following gum surgery, it’s advisable to avoid strenuous activity and to take time off.
Because the Chao Pinhole Technique requires no incisions or sutures, downtime is much shorter. There’s virtually no downtime and you don’t have to worry about excessive pain or bleeding because your periodontist never cuts into your gums.
The Chao Pinhole Technique is a safe, effective alternative to gum graft surgery. To learn more, call Santa Monica Bay Periodontics, or book an appointment online today.
