The Pinhole Surgical Technique® (PST) is a minimally invasive procedure for treating gum recession without scalpels or sutures. Through a small pinhole opening, existing gum tissue is gently loosened and repositioned over exposed tooth roots, preserving blood supply and supporting natural healing.
Yes. PST evolved from decades of scientific development in periodontal and mucogingival surgery. It builds on established principles such as tissue release, preservation of blood supply, and biologic wound healing. PST represents a refinement of minimally invasive approaches rather than a break from traditional periodontal care.
The Pinhole Surgical Technique was developed by John Chao, DDS, a practicing dentist and researcher. Dr. Chao introduced PST after years of clinical refinement and has published long-term outcomes in peer-reviewed dental journals. He has personally trained dentists in the technique through formal educational programs.
PST and traditional grafting are both established treatment options. Traditional grafting involves surgical incisions, donor tissue, and sutures. PST repositions existing gum tissue without donor sites or stitches. The choice between techniques depends on clinical findings, patient preferences, and treatment goals.
No. Treating multiple teeth—or an entire arch—in a single session is a common and intentional feature of PST. Because the technique avoids large incisions and donor sites, broader areas can often be addressed efficiently, allowing patients to consider single-arch or dual-arch treatment rather than multiple staged procedures.
PST may be used for mild, moderate, and many severe recession cases. Proper diagnosis and periodontal disease management are essential. In advanced cases, the primary clinical goal often focuses on tissue stability and protection of teeth and bone, rather than cosmetic root coverage alone.
Approximately 4,000 dentists worldwide have completed certification in the Pinhole Surgical Technique. Of these, about 1,000 are specialists, including periodontists. Training has been conducted personally by Dr. John Chao, the inventor of the technique.
Clinical studies and long-term follow-up have shown that PST can provide stable outcomes when performed on properly selected patients and combined with appropriate periodontal care. Long-term success depends on oral hygiene, professional maintenance, and control of underlying gum disease
No. Gum recession is often a visible sign of underlying periodontal disease and bone loss. Exposed roots can allow bacterial infiltration, contributing to further tissue and bone breakdown. Sealing these areas is important for long-term tooth stability and prognosis, even beyond cosmetic root coverage.
The cost of PST varies based on the extent of treatment and geographic location. Fees are generally comparable to traditional gum grafting procedures. Patients may find it helpful to review the typical cost of gum graft surgery in their area and discuss individualized treatment options with their provider.
The Pinhole Surgical Technique is covered by the vast majority of dental insurance plans, subject to individual plan terms, conditions, exclusions, deductibles, and annual maximums. Coverage varies by carrier and by specific policy. Verification with the individual insurance plan is recommended. Many dental offices offer affordable, interest-free payment options.
PST is technique-sensitive and requires specialized training and instruments. Formal training helps ensure appropriate case selection, careful tissue handling, and predictable outcomes while minimizing risk.