Ferguson Dental is excited about this breakthrough treatment for gum recession
Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique now available in Montclair, NJ

What is gum recession?

Gum recession, or loss of gum tissue along the gumline exposing the tooth root, is a common dental problem caused by several factors including periodontal disease (gingivitis, periodontitis, advanced periodontitis), hormonal changes, or aggressive habits when it comes to brushing the teeth. Additionally, many patients have a genetic predisposition to recession or the cause of recession is unknown.

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.

Unique tools and techniques are used to perform the Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique. Dr. Ferguson has decades of experience in traditional periodontal tissue grafting and surgical methods. He has recently completed extensive training in the Pinhole Surgical Technique and is certified in using the innovative method.

How does the Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique 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 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?

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