Gum recession is something many people deal with—and it’s more than just a cosmetic concern. It can cause tooth sensitivity, make you more prone to decay, and even affect how confident you feel about your smile. For years, traditional treatments often meant painful grafting and long recoveries. Thankfully, there’s a better way now.
The Pinhole® Surgical Technique (PST) is a minimally invasive alternative that can gently restore your gum line with less discomfort and much less downtime. In this post, we’ll walk you through what PST is, how it works, and why it’s such a game-changer in treating gum recession. We’ll also introduce you to the brilliant mind behind the technique, Dr. John Chao, and spotlight Dr. Trujillo, a trusted provider who has been personally trained by Dr. Chao to perform this innovative procedure.
What Is the Pinhole® Surgical Technique?
The Pinhole® Surgical Technique—also known as the Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique—is a cutting-edge treatment that corrects gum recession without the need for traditional gum grafting. Created by Dr. John Chao, PST uses a tiny pinhole in the gum tissue to gently reposition the gums over exposed tooth roots.
No scalpels, no sutures, and best of all—no need to take tissue from the roof of your mouth. The procedure is quick, often completed in one visit, and patients typically enjoy a much more comfortable recovery experience.
How Does the Pinhole® Surgical Technique Work?
If you’re considering PST, here’s a glimpse into what you can expect:
- Your Consultation: First, you’ll meet with a trained provider who will carefully assess your gums and overall dental health to determine if PST is the right option for you.
- Gentle Numbing: On the day of the procedure, the area is numbed with a local anesthetic. There are no incisions involved, so you’ll stay comfortable throughout.
- Tiny Pinhole Access: A small opening—just the size of a pen tip—is made in the gum tissue above the affected area. This tiny entry point means less trauma and a speedier healing process.
- Repositioning the Gum Tissue: Using specially designed instruments, your dentist will gently loosen the gum tissue and move it to a healthier position over the exposed roots.
- Healing Support: Collagen strips are then placed to stabilize the new gum position and encourage healing.
- Quick Recovery: Most people find the pinhole heals within 24 hours—and you can get back to your routine with very few limitations.
Why Patients Love the Pinhole® Surgical Technique
Compared to traditional grafting, PST offers several standout benefits:
✅ Minimally Invasive: No cutting, no stitches, and no second surgical site means a much more comfortable experience.
✅ Immediate Results: You’ll notice a healthier, more natural-looking gum line right after the procedure.
✅ Fast Healing: Most people are back to normal within a day or two.
✅ No Donor Site Needed: With PST, there’s no need to remove tissue from elsewhere in your mouth—so healing is easier and faster.
✅ Convenient: Multiple areas of gum recession can often be treated in just one appointment.
Meet the Innovator: Dr. John Chao
Dr. John Chao is more than just a dentist—he’s an innovator who saw the need for a less invasive, more patient-friendly solution to gum recession. His dedication to finding a better way led to the creation of the Pinhole® Surgical Technique, now practiced by dentists around the world.
Beyond developing the technique, Dr. Chao has committed himself to teaching it, sharing his knowledge and training hundreds of dentists globally so more patients can benefit from this gentle approach.
Dr. Trujillo: Personally Trained by Dr. Chao
We’re proud to share that Dr. Trujillo has been personally trained by Dr. Chao himself. This means you can trust that you’re in expert hands when choosing PST. Dr. Trujillo combines advanced training with a warm, personalized approach to care. He takes the time to understand your concerns, explain your options, and make sure you feel confident every step of the way.
Compassionately Trusted by Patients
And don’t just take our word for it—Dr. Trujillo has earned the trust of countless patients, many of whom have left heartfelt reviews praising both his clinical expertise and the genuine care he brings to every appointment. From his calm demeanor to his attention to detail, patients consistently highlight how supported and comfortable they felt throughout their experience.
PST, An Alternative to Gum Recession
The Pinhole® Surgical Technique is a breakthrough in gum recession treatment—offering real results with less pain and hassle. Thanks to pioneers like Dr. Chao and skilled professionals like Dr. Trujillo, you can restore your smile with confidence and ease.
If you’re dealing with gum recession and want to learn if PST is right for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Trujillo. This simple, innovative procedure could be the gentle solution you’ve been looking for.
Want to learn more about the procedure? Visit the official Pinhole® website for even more information.
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Trujillo in Phoenix, AZ, for gum recession treatment using the Pinhole® Surgical Technique.
Stop by: 1717 West Northern Avenue, Suite 104, Phoenix, AZ, 85021
Pinhole® Surgical Technique FAQ
Traditional grafting often requires tissue to be harvested from the roof of the mouth and stitched into place, resulting in longer recovery times. PST, on the other hand, uses a special instrument to loosen and reposition the existing gum tissue through a small entry point, offering a faster and more comfortable recovery.
PST is ideal for patients with mild to moderate gum recession who have enough healthy gum tissue for repositioning. It may not be suitable for patients with severe periodontal disease or very thin gums. A consultation with a periodontist can determine eligibility.
Most patients report minimal discomfort during and after the PST procedure. Since there are no incisions or sutures, the treatment is generally much less painful than traditional grafting techniques. Local anesthesia is used to ensure comfort during the procedure.
Recovery is typically quick, with most patients returning to normal activities within a day or two. Minor swelling or sensitivity may occur but usually resolves within a few days.
When combined with proper oral hygiene and regular dental care, the results of the Pinhole® Surgical Technique can be long-lasting. The treated gums should remain stable and healthy for many years.
Coverage varies depending on the provider and individual insurance plans. Some insurance companies may cover part of the cost as a periodontal procedure. It’s best to check with your dental insurance provider ahead of time.
Yes, patients often notice an immediate improvement in the appearance of their gums after the procedure. Full healing and tissue stabilization continue over the following weeks.
Depending on the extent of gum recession, multiple teeth—even an entire arch—can be treated in one session. This is a significant advantage over traditional grafting, which often treats one or two teeth at a time.
Yes, PST is a safe and effective treatment when performed by a dentist or periodontist trained and certified in the technique. Dr. Trujillo was personally trained by Dr. Chao, who created the PST. As with any dental procedure, risks are minimal but should be discussed with your provider.
Are you ready to get started with a new smile? Schedule an appointment with Dr. Trujillo at Arizona Periodontal Group in Phoenix, AZ.
