Dentist in Des Plaines

A Breakthrough Treatment for Gum Recession

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