Gum Recession Treatment
PINHOLE & Gum Grafting

Effective recession treatment begins with precise clinical measurement — we document recession depth, width of keratinised gingiva, tissue thickness (biotype), root surface texture, and whether the recession is localised or generalized. Thin biotype patients — those with translucent, delicate gum tissue — are at highest risk for further recession and are often the best candidates for the minimally invasive PINHOLE Surgical Technique. This assessment directly determines which treatment pathway offers the most predictable long-term result.

We discuss both treatment options with you and select the most appropriate based on your anatomy, the extent of recession, your aesthetic goals, and recovery preferences. The Chao PINHOLE Surgical Technique (PST) is a minimally invasive approach that repositions existing gum tissue through a tiny pinhole access without scalpel incisions or sutures — making it ideal for treating multiple adjacent teeth simultaneously with a dramatically shorter recovery. Traditional connective tissue grafting remains the preferred choice when tissue augmentation is the primary goal or when the existing tissue volume is insufficient for PINHOLE repositioning.

The PINHOLE procedure is performed under local anesthesia through a 1-2mm access hole in the gum tissue near the recession site. Using specially designed instruments, we loosen and gently reposition the gum tissue coronally to cover the exposed root surfaces. No scalpel, no sutures, and no palatal donor site are needed. Multiple teeth — sometimes an entire arch — can be treated in a single appointment, making this one of the most patient-friendly advances in modern periodontal surgery.

Small collagen membrane strips are placed through the PINHOLE access point to stabilise the repositioned tissue and maintain coverage while healing occurs. These resorbable membranes serve as a scaffold that promotes new tissue attachment and prevents the tissue from shifting back to its original position. The gum line is then gently pressed into place and self-retains without sutures. Patients leave the appointment with their teeth covered and virtually no visible signs of surgery.

Recovery from the PINHOLE technique is significantly faster than traditional grafting — most patients resume normal activities within 24-48 hours and experience minimal swelling or discomfort. A soft diet is recommended for the first week. We schedule follow-up appointments at one week and three months to assess tissue stabilisation and root coverage. We also address the underlying cause of recession — whether that is brushing technique, periodontal disease, or an occlusal issue — to prevent recurrence.