Southwest Florida's Health and Wellness Magazine Health and Wellness Articles
By William Campbell, DMD
There is a revolutionary new treatment for receding gums called the Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique. It is a minimally invasive, incision-free and suture-free alternative to traditional gum grafting. This “no-cut” and “no-sew” treatment uses an instrument to make a small pinhole in the patient’s gum tissue. Through this pinhole, the doctor inserts collagen fibers to help stabilize the gum position.
Traditional gum grafting techniques involve soft-tissue grafts that rebuild the gum line. These grafts are usually taken from the soft palate of the patient’s mouth. The soft tissue is then sutured into place over the exposed gum line. As healing occurs, the grafted tissue grows with the existing gum tissue. It is an effective treatment, but it is invasive and requires time to heal and recuperate.
The Pinhole Surgical Technique has shown excellent results over the last decade. Its advantages include less pain, shorter treatment time, and less post-treatment analgesics. Additionally, there is an increase in tissue thickness and there is exact color match, since not grafts are performed. Of course, no treatment is perfect. The limitations of PST include the complexity of the technique, food restrictions and post-operative instructions that must be closely followed.
What is gum recession?
Gum recession refers to the loss of gum tissue along the gum line. It can be caused by a number of factors, including gum disease such as gingivitis and periodontitis, and from the natural aging process or aggressive brushing habits.
Other reasons may include:
• Toothbrush abrasion
• Periodontal tissue loss
• High frenum attachments
• Trauma
• Orthodontic movement
• Smoking/use of tobacco products
• Genetics
• Poorly fitting dentures
• Drug use
Signs of gum recession:
• Exposed root of your tooth/teeth
• Red or swollen gums
• Bleeding while brushing
• Loose or separating teeth
Consequences of untreated tissue recession include:
• Poor esthetics (long-looking teeth)
• Root hypersensitivity
• Root caries
• Plaque retention
• Bleeding
• Continued tissue loss
Who is a candidate for the Chao Pinhole Technique?
If you show signs of gum recession, your dentist may recommend the minimally invasive PST procedure to restore your gums and promote tissue attachment. However, PST is not for everyone. Your dentist will work with you to determine which procedure is best for your dental health needs.
Dr. William Campbell
At Park Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. John Campbell, DMD, is certified in the Chao Pinhole Technique. There aren’t many dentists around the entire globe who have obtained a certification in this treatment. Dr. Campbell has been trained and certified to perform the Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique. In addition, he exhibits brilliance when treating his patients, and he is continually striving to absorb as much education and training as possible. He completed the curriculum at the Dawson Center for Advanced Dental Learning in St. Petersburg, Florida, focusing on treatment of occlusion and bite disorders, as well as TMJ/TMD courses at the nearby Piper Education Center. The thirst for these continuing education courses is one tenet firmly rooted at Dr. Campbell’s core. Case in point, he completed a one-year accelerated master’s degree in the Biomedical Sciences program at Barry University in Miami, Florida. Following completion of his master’s, he earned his doctorate in Dental Medicine at Nova Southeastern University in 2009.
PARK Family and Cosmetic Dentistry
690 Goodlette-Frank Rd. N
239-330-4208
