Black and gold shield logo reading “Chao Pinhole” with a stylized monogram in the center

Pinhole® Surgical Technique in Victoria, BC

Understanding Gum Recession

Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue gradually pulls away from the teeth, exposing the tooth roots. This may result from periodontal disease, aggressive brushing, aging, genetics, teeth grinding, or other factors that affect the health of the gums.


As the roots become exposed, they are more vulnerable to tooth sensitivity, decay, wear, and additional gum loss. Gum recession does not heal on its own, making early diagnosis and treatment important for protecting your teeth, improving comfort, and maintaining long-term oral health.

How the Pinhole® Surgical Technique Works

The Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique (PST™) restores receding gums without scalpels, stitches, or donor tissue. A small opening is created in the gum, allowing specialized instruments to gently loosen and reposition the existing tissue over the exposed tooth roots.


Unlike traditional gum grafting, PST™ uses your own healthy gum tissue to restore the gumline. The procedure is designed to provide a more comfortable experience while preserving your natural tissue.


  • No scalpels or stitches
  • No donor tissue required
  • Uses your existing gum tissue
  • Less discomfort after treatment
  • Minimal bleeding and swelling
  • Faster healing and recovery
  • Natural-looking results

Why Choose the Pinhole® Surgical Technique?

Compared with traditional gum grafting, the Pinhole® Surgical Technique offers a less invasive approach with excellent clinical and cosmetic results, shorter recovery, and improved comfort. Since no tissue is taken from the roof of the mouth, patients often experience less post-operative discomfort and return to normal activities sooner, while the repositioned gum tissue creates a healthy, natural-looking gumline that protects exposed roots and enhances the smile.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the Pinhole® Surgical Technique?

    The Pinhole® Surgical Technique (PST™) is a minimally invasive procedure that treats gum recession by gently repositioning your existing gum tissue over exposed tooth roots. It requires no scalpels, stitches, or tissue grafts and is designed to promote a more comfortable recovery.

  • How is PST™ different from gum grafting?

    Traditional gum grafting requires donor tissue and sutures to rebuild the gumline. PST™ instead repositions your existing gum tissue through a small opening, eliminating the need for grafts or stitches while providing natural-looking results and a quicker recovery.

  • Is the procedure painful?

    Most patients experience less discomfort than with traditional gum grafting because no incisions or donor tissue are involved. Recovery is generally faster, and many people return to their normal daily activities sooner while following personalized aftercare instructions.

  • Who is a candidate for PST™?

    Patients with mild to moderate gum recession may be candidates for the Pinhole® Surgical Technique. During your consultation, we will carefully evaluate your gum health, discuss your goals, and determine whether PST™ is the most appropriate treatment.

  • What are the benefits of PST™?

    PST™ offers many benefits, including no scalpels, stitches, or tissue grafts, along with less discomfort, minimal bleeding, faster healing, and natural-looking results. The procedure also helps protect exposed tooth roots and restore a healthier gumline.

  • How long is recovery?

    Recovery varies for each patient, but most people heal more quickly than with traditional gum grafting. Because the procedure does not require incisions or donor tissue, many patients experience minimal discomfort and return to normal routines sooner.