Gum recession is a common problem, and it involves the tissue along the gum line. In some cases, gum recession is caused by advanced periodontitis and gingivitis, but it can also be caused by aging and abrasive habits. For example, some people brush their teeth too hard and end up with receding gums. The mistake that many patients make is not taking this problem seriously, and if left unchecked, gum recession will expose the roots of your teeth. Once the gums have receded past a certain point, they’re unable to protect the root structure from decay. Fortunately, if you are in this situation, the Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique can help. We are proud to offer this service at the office of Dr. Wendy Willoughby, DDS in Asheville.
Also called PST, the Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique serves as a minimally-invasive option, and it’s regularly used to treat gum recession. Traditional gum grafting techniques are invasive and require the use of a scalpel and sutures. Alternative treatments require donor tissue, which is used to restore the gum line. These techniques might also use soft tissue grafts, and the grafts are needed to join existing gum tissue. Despite the effectiveness of traditional gum grafting, these techniques aren’t ideal, and many patients will have a better experience with PST.
During the Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique procedure, a small hole is created in your existing gum tissue. Once the pinhole has been made, we use special instruments to gently loosen your gum tissue, and the tools are very effective for expanding and sliding your gum line into the correct position. With this technique, we’re able to gently slide your existing gum tissue over exposed root structures, and the procedure doesn’t require incisions, sutures or grafts. Put simply, PST involves readjusting your existing gum tissue, and it offers several advantages over traditional gum grafting techniques.
If you’re considering this treatment, you should know the benefits and why it might be the better treatment for your needs. When compared with alternative options, the Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique causes less patient discomfort, and the amount of time needed for recovery is significantly reduced. PST doesn’t require a scalpel, sutures or donor tissue, and your palate will remain untouched. Despite the lack of invasiveness, this treatment offers excellent results, and many patients would agree that the results are very similar to what you’d get from traditional gum grafting.
One of the reasons why this technique has become extremely popular is because it doesn’t involve as much risk as traditional treatments. Since the technique requires only a tiny hole, the risk of complications is significantly reduced. After the procedure is finished, the issue of gum recession will be solved, and your teeth will be healthier.
During a consultation at the office of Dr. Wendy Willoughby, DDS, you can get all the facts about the Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique and how it may benefit you. Contact us today to book an appointment at our office in Asheville!
