Pinhole Surgical Technique

Restore Your Smile Comfortably

Overview

Gum recession exposes tooth roots, causing sensitivity and making teeth look longer. The Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST™) is a minimally invasive method to reposition receded gums without scalpels or sutures. Through a tiny pinhole, the gum tissue is loosened and guided back over the roots, then stabilized with collagen to allow healing in a healthier position. PST™ treats one or more teeth in a single visit, with minimal downtime and natural-looking results.

Micro-pinhole entry

A tiny opening (about the size of a pinhead) is made in the gum to access the treatment area—no incisions or stitches.

Tissue mobilization

Special instruments gently loosen and guide existing gum tissue to cover exposed roots.

Collagen stabilization

Collagen strips are placed through the pinhole to support and hold the gums in their new position while healing.

Root surface smoothing

Exposed root areas are cleaned and polished to reduce plaque retention and future irritation.

Local anesthesia & comfort

The area is thoroughly numbed for a comfortable experience from start to finish.

Same-day multi-tooth care

Several teeth can often be treated in one appointment, limiting the number of visits.

Want a Closer Look?

Watch This Short Video to Understand How the Pinhole Surgical Technique Works

This short animated video explains the benefits of the Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique based on Dr. Chao’s teaching. It’s a quick and easy way to understand how the treatment works and why it helps improve gum health.

Benefits

Ready to Treat Gum Recession the Modern Way?

Experience a Modern, Minimally Invasive Solution for Gum Recession

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We are here to help you every step of the way

Minimal downtime

Because there are no grafts, incisions, or sutures, most patients return to normal activities quickly with less swelling and discomfort.

Natural aesthetics

Repositioning your own gum tissue provides even coverage and a healthier, more balanced smile line.

Long-term support

Stabilizing the tissue with collagen helps protect sensitive roots and supports better gum health over time.

We support you every step of the way to get you the best dental care.

How we treat you

What to Expect with Pinhole Surgical Technique

From your first visit, we use cutting-edge tools to make your diagnosis and treatment experience more efficient and reliable.

Personalized evaluation

We map recession areas, review your health history, and discuss goals to confirm PST is the right option.

Comfort-first numbing

Local anesthesia is applied; a small pinhole is created in the gum near the treatment site.

Reposition & stabilize

Gum tissue is gently advanced over exposed roots and secured with collagen for immediate coverage.

Simple aftercare

You’ll receive easy home-care instructions, a soft-food plan for the first days, and a follow-up visit to monitor healing.

We got some answers

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Pinhole Surgical Technique painful?

Most patients report little to no discomfort. The gums are fully numbed during the procedure, and because there are no incisions or stitches, recovery is typically smooth and comfortable.

How long does healing take after PST?

Healing begins immediately, and most patients resume normal activities within 24–48 hours. Minor swelling or tenderness is possible but usually resolves quickly.

Am I a good candidate for the Pinhole Surgical Technique?

You may be a good candidate if you have gum recession, exposed roots, or sensitivity but want to avoid traditional gum grafting. A consultation will determine if PST is the best option for your gum health.

We Offer Same-Day Emergency Dental Care in Most Cases

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Testimonials

What Our Patients Are Saying

We’re proud to have earned the trust of families across El Cajon and beyond. See what makes Korel Family Dentistry a place our patients genuinely enjoy visiting.

I usually dread the dentist, but Dr. Korel made me feel calm and cared for. The team was so patient and explained everything clearly.

Gentle and Professional!

I had a terrible toothache and they got me in the same day. The treatment was quick, and I left pain-free. Truly grateful!

Fixed My Emergency Fast!

My daughter was nervous for her first visit, but they were amazing with her. She’s actually excited to go back!

Great With Kids!

I had cosmetic work done and the results are incredible. The team listened to what I wanted and delivered exactly that.

I Finally Love My Smile!