Pinhole Gum Treatment in Glendale, AZ
Common Procedures | Restorative Dentistry | Cosmetic Dentistry | Dental Implants | Invisalign® | Veneers | Wisdom Teeth | Pinhole Gum Treatment
A Breakthrough Treatment for Gum Recession

What is gum recession?
Gum recession refers to the loss of gum tissue along the gum line. This can occur as a result of periodontal disease (gingivitis, periodontitis, advanced periodontitis), the natural aging process, or abrasive habits when it comes to brushing the teeth.
Why should gum recession be taken seriously?
When gum recession occurs, the root structure of the tooth becomes exposed. This means that tooth decay and other problems can affect the teeth along the gum line and beneath it. Since healthy gums are essential for a healthy mouth, getting gum recession treated is important for lasting dental wellness.
What is the Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST)?
The Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique is a minimally invasive option for treating gum recession. Unlike traditional grafting techniques, PST is incision and suture free.
All of the tools and techniques used to perform the Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique were created by Dr. John Chao, and who trained our doctor.
How does the Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique differ from traditional gum grafting?
Traditional gum recession treatments involve the use of donor tissue or soft tissue grafts in order to rebuild the gum line. This soft tissue would be sutured in place and would join with existing gum tissue as it healed.
While this traditional grafting treatment is effective, comparable results with better patient experience can be achieved through the Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique.
How is Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique performed?
During the Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique, a needle is used to make a small hole in the patient’s existing gum tissue. Through this pinhole, special instruments are used to gently loosen the gum tissue.
These tools help expand and slide the gum line to cover the exposed root structure.
There are no grafts, no sutures, and no incisions needed with the Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique. It simply involves the adjustment of the existing tissue.
What are the benefits of Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique?
The benefits of the Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique are many:
- Less discomfort for the patient after treatment
- Faster recovery for the patient than traditional grafting
- No need for uncomfortable sutures
- No need for scalpels or invasive surgical tools
- No need to take donor tissue from the patient’s palate
- Excellent, natural-looking, long-lasting results
Copyright © John Chao DDS MAGD



“I have been going to Critchfield dental for about 13 years. The staff has always been so kind. They do a great job and I have never had any problems. My kids get their teeth cleaned there too and the staff is also really good with kids. I highly recommend them!”
“I love going to Critchfield Dental! Everything one there has always been very nice, and the office is clean and well cared for. And Dr. Critchfield and all the hygienists who have worked on my teeth over the years have always been very gentle, which greatly appreciated. I highly recommend this office!”
“Dr. Critchfield has been our dentist for six years. His professional, knowledgeable and kind staff are a comfort and delight to all who come for their dental care. Calm, reassuring and dedicated to each and everyone is present in every visit. You can expect and receive the best dentistry in the valley. We are blessed to call him our dentist.”
“Dr. Critchfield is an amazing dentist and the Dental assistants were very nice and made me feel welcomed.”
“Dr. Critchfield and his staff are so nice and professional. I have gone to him for about 28 years now, and have nothing but good things to say about him. He is very gentle and ethical.”