Pinhole Surgical Technique FAQ

1. Who Created the Pinhole Surgical Technique?

John Chao, D.D.S. invented and patented the Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST) washington dc. PST is a breakthrough technique which is used for treating gum recession.

2. What is Gum Recession?

Gum recession is the loss of gum tissue, specifically along the gumline. This condition can occur as a result of periodontal disease, including gingivitis, periodontitis and advanced periodontitis, from the natural aging process or due to abrasive habits such as aggressively brushing the teeth.

3. What Causes Gum Recession?

Gum recession is one of the many different signs of gum disease. There are numerous different issues that can cause gum recession which can include aggressive brushing, grinding the teeth, periodontal disease, a lack of gingival tissue which can give the appearance of long teeth or a side effect from specific medications. Receding gums give an aged appearance of your smile and face.

Traditional gum surgery and some orthodontic treatments can also result in receding gums because healthy tissue is removed in order to treat the infection.

4. Other Problems Associated with Receding Gums

Receding gums can also result in sensitive teeth and tooth decay. When it is left untreated, gum recession can even result in the loss of teeth. Gum recession reportedly impacts more than half of the population.

5. Why are Receding Gums So Serious?

With receding gums, the root structure of the tooth is exposed. This can make the tooth susceptible to decay and other issues which can affect the teeth around the gumline. Because healthy gums are critical for a healthy mouth, treating gum recession is vital for good oral health.

6. What is the Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST)?

The Pinhole Surgical Technique is a minimally invasive treatment option for gum recession. Contrary to traditional grafting techniques that are used, PST does not involve incisions or sutures.

7. How is the Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST) Different from Traditional Gum Grafting?

Traditional gum recession treatments include the use of donor tissue or soft tissue grafts which are used to rebuild the damaged gumline. This soft tissue is sutured in place and connects to the existing gum tissue during the healing process.

The traditional grafting treatment has been effective, equivalent results with an improved patient experience are possible through the Pinhole Surgical Technique.

8. How is Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST) performed?

Through the Pinhole Surgical Technique, a small needle is used to make a small hole in the existing gum tissue. Special instruments are then used to gently loosen the gum tissue through the pinhole. These special tools aid in expanding and sliding the gumline to cover the exposed root structure. Grafts, sutures and incisions are not required with the Pinhole Surgical Technique. PST simply involves an adjustment of the existing tissue.

9. What are the Benefits of Pinhole Surgical Technique?

The benefits of the Pinhole Surgical Technique include:

• Reduced pain following the treatment
• Quicker recovery compared to traditional gum grafting
• Sutures are not used
• Scalpels and invasive surgical tools are not needed
• Donor tissue is not taken from the patient’s palate
• The results are almost immediate and produce a natural looking smile

10. Who is a Good Candidate for PST?

Because the pinhole technique is not invasive, most patients who have gum recession can benefit from the procedure. Prior to beginning the treatment, the dentist will review your dental and medical history, in addition to your oral health goals. Patients are a good candidate for PST if they meet the following criteria:

• Desire an alternative to traditional gum surgery
• Want a less invasive treatment option which does not required the use of scalpels or surgical instruments
• Need a treatment option which doesn’t have harsh food restrictions
• Want quick and long-lasting results without the post-treatment discomfort
• Want to avoid the removal of tissue from other parts of your mouth
• Desire a quick and efficient recovery

It is also important to maintain good oral hygiene and ensure you attend your follow-up visits in order to ensure optimal results. Patients should also avoid any gum-eroding activities, which can include aggressive brushing, teeth grinding and the use of tobacco.

11. How Many Treatments Will I Need With PST?

In most cases, the pinhole technique used with PST is completed in just one visit. The length of time required for complete treatment can vary depending on how many teeth are effected.

12. How long does PST take?

The length of an individual PST appointment can vary depending on the number of teeth being repaired. It usually takes about 10-20 minutes to treat the tissue for an individual tooth. The entire procedure can typically be completed in about an hour or two.

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