Gum recession is a common concern that can affect both oral health and confidence. At Atlanta Center for Advanced Periodontics, serving Midtown, Sandy Springs, and the greater Atlanta area, we offer an innovative, minimally invasive solution to reverse gum recession and restore a healthier, more youthful gumline.
Dr. Brock Pumphrey is specially trained and certified in the Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique (PST™).
What is gum recession?
Gum recession refers to the gradual loss of gum tissue along the gumline. It can occur for several reasons, including:
- Periodontal disease (gingivitis, periodontitis, advanced periodontitis)
- Aging
- Aggressive or abrasive brushing techniques
- Genetics
- Orthodontic movement
- Clenching or grinding
When the gums recede, the root surface becomes exposed, making teeth more vulnerable to decay, sensitivity, and structural damage.
Why gum recession matters
Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. When gum recession is left untreated, patients may experience:
- Tooth sensitivity
- Increased risk of cavities near the gumline
- Bone loss around teeth
- Higher risk of tooth mobility
- Aged or uneven appearance of the smile
Treating gum recession early helps preserve long-term oral health and prevent future complications.
Introducing the Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique (PST™)
The Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique is a breakthrough, minimally invasive treatment for gum recession. Unlike traditional gum grafting methods, PST™ is:
- Scalpel-free
- Suture-free
- Graft-free
All instruments and techniques used in PST™ were developed by Dr. John Chao, who pioneered this innovative approach.
How PST™ differs from traditional gum grafting
Traditional gum grafting requires:
- Donor tissue (often from the palate)
- Surgical incisions
- Sutures
- A longer healing period
While traditional grafting remains effective, many patients today prefer the less invasive experience offered by PST™.
With the Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique, comparable results can be achieved without cutting, stitching, or harvesting tissue, making the procedure more comfortable and often providing a quicker recovery.
How the Chao Pinhole® Surgical technique is performed
During the PST™ procedure:
- A tiny pinhole is made in the existing gum tissue.
- Through this opening, specialized instruments gently loosen and reposition the gum.
- The gum tissue is guided downward to cover the exposed root surfaces.
- Collagen material may be placed to help stabilize the new position.
There are no sutures, incisions, or grafts involved, only the careful adjustment of your natural gum tissue.
Benefits of the Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique
Patients choose PST™ because it offers:
- Less discomfort after the procedure
- Faster recovery compared to traditional grafting
- No scalpels or sutures
- No need for donor tissue from the palate
- Natural-looking, long-lasting results
- Minimally invasive treatment is ideal for multiple recession sites
Dr. Pumphrey: Your certified Pinhole® Technique periodontist
Dr. Pumphrey is specially trained and certified to perform the Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique
Schedule your consultation today
Expert Insight: Dr. Pumphrey’s Note
“The Pinhole Technique allows us to correct gum recession with far less discomfort and downtime than traditional grafting. Patients love the natural-looking results and the ability to restore their gumline without invasive surgery.”
You May Also Wonder…
Patients interested in gum recession treatment often explore:
Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique vs. Connective Tissue Grafting