| ✅ Reviewed by Dr. Tom McCawley | 🕒 Reading time: three minutes |
Receding gums can make your teeth look longer, increase sensitivity, and affect the overall health and appearance of your smile. If you have been told you need grafting or worry about a long, uncomfortable recovery, the Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST™) offers a minimally invasive alternative.
What Is the Pinhole Surgical Technique?
The Pinhole Surgical Technique is a modern alternative to traditional gum grafting. Through a pin-sized opening, we gently loosen your natural gum tissue and guide it into a healthier position using specialized instruments.
There is no painful secondary wound on the palate, no scalpels, and only a few sutures if needed. Because the tissue remains intact, cosmetic improvement is immediate and recovery is far smoother than conventional grafting.
What Causes Gum Recession?
Common contributors include:
- Periodontal (gum) disease
- Aggressive brushing
- Genetics
- Orthodontic movement
- Grinding or clenching
- Tobacco use
PST corrects recession by gently moving your existing gum tissue back into a healthier position.
How the Pinhole Surgical Technique Is Performed
Here is what you can expect during the Pinhole Surgical Technique.
1. Diagnosis and Planning
We begin with a detailed evaluation of the gums and bone to determine whether PST is appropriate and ensure enough tissue is available for repositioning.
2. Local Anesthetic and Sedation Options
The area is completely numbed, and sedation can be provided for patients who prefer a more relaxed experience.
3. Creating the “Pinhole”
A tiny opening—about the size of a ballpoint pen tip—is made above the recessed area. This small entry point replaces the incisions used in traditional grafting.
4. Repositioning the Gum Tissue
Using specialized PST instruments, we gently loosen the gum tissue and guide it down over the exposed roots.
5. Collagen Support
Small collagen strips are placed beneath the gum to stabilize the new position and support proper healing.
Most procedures take one to two hours, but if multiple areas are being treated it may take longer.
Why Patients Choose PST Instead of Traditional Grafting
Gum grafting can be effective, but it typically involves a secondary surgical site, stitches, and a longer recovery period. PST avoids these challenges and prioritizes comfort.
Key Benefits of the Pinhole Surgical Technique
- Multiple teeth can be treated in one visit
- No painful secondary wound on the palate
- No scalpels and few sutures
- Minimal post-operative pain
For patients who want effective results without significant downtime, PST offers a convenient and predictable option.
Our Unique Expertise
The Pinhole Surgical Technique can only be performed by specially trained clinicians. Dr. Mark McCawley is one of just 35 clinicians worldwide certified at the advanced level of Chao Pinhole training.
Patients choose our practice because we offer:
- A minimally invasive, in-office procedure designed to fit into busy schedules
- Sedation options for comfort and ease
- Detailed diagnostics to evaluate gum health and underlying bacterial factors
- Expertise built through teaching, research, and decades of periodontal care
Is the Pinhole Technique Right for You?
If you want to correct gum recession without grafting, stitches, or a lengthy recovery, the Pinhole Surgical Technique may be an excellent solution. During your consultation, we will examine your gums, assess your tissue support, and determine whether it is the best approach for your needs.
Schedule Your Consultation in Fort Lauderdale
If you are ready to restore your gumline with a gentle, minimally invasive procedure, our team is here to help.
To book an appointment at our periodontal office in Fort Lauderdale, FL, call (954) 807-4829 or visit us at 800 East Broward Blvd #706 Fort Lauderdale, FL.
FAQs
tissue to reposition, and it may not be suitable for areas with severe bone loss or very thin tissue. In some situations, traditional grafting may provide better long-term stability.
For many patients, yes. PST offers a comfortable experience, avoids a second surgical site, and provides immediate cosmetic improvement with minimal downtime. Patients who want predictable results without the discomfort of grafting often find it well worth the investment.
Studies and clinical experience show high success rates when PST is performed by a trained and certified clinician. Tissue stability is strong when underlying causes, such as gum disease or grinding, are managed appropriately after treatment.
PST may not be recommended if the gum tissue is too thin, if there is advanced bone loss, active gum disease, or inadequate tissue to reposition. During your consultation, we will evaluate your gums and determine whether PST or another treatment is the best option.
