Precision Periodontics & Implant Dentistry

Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique (PST)

Washington DC & Alexandria VA

Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique

Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique Washington DC & Alexandria VA

Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique (PST)
Washington DC & Alexandria VA

Patients who are experiencing gum recession or who have a gummy smile may be good candidates for the Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique (PST), an innovative procedure that is growing in popularity, due to it being suture and scalpel free and much less invasive than the traditional gum grafting procedure. Pinhole Surgical Technique involves making a small hole using a needle to loosen gum tissue, which is then moved over the areas of the tooth where the gum has receded. Because there is not cutting or stitching required for this procedure, patients can enjoy a much faster recovery period and avoid post-procedural issues commonly associated with traditional treatment options for gum recession, such as swelling, pain, discomfort, and/or bleeding.

At Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, our specialty trained periodontists Dr. Justin Zalewsky and Dr. Antara Daru have years of experience treating a wide range of stages of gum disease and placing dental implants. To learn more about the Pinhole Surgical Technique, our clinic facilities, or to schedule an appointment for a procedure, contact our Alexandria, VA office at (703) 823-2422 or our Washington D.C. office at (202) 296-3360.

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Dr. Alkakhan

Dr. Waleed completed a General Practice Residency at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, gaining advanced clinical training in surgical treatments. His thirst for expertise led him to specialize in Periodontics and Implant Surgery at the prestigious Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC). At MUSC, he served as Chief Resident of Periodontics and conducted groundbreaking research on macrophage plasticity during periodontal inflammation, earning a second Master's of Science degree.

Meet Dr. Waleed Alkakhan >

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Dr. Daru

In 2005, Dr. Daru embarked on her educational odyssey, crossing continents to pursue her passion for dentistry. She obtained her Master of Science in Oral Biology and a certificate in Periodontics from the prestigious New York University and the University of Maryland, Baltimore, in 2010. During her academic years, she delved into intensive research, particularly focusing on innovative bone regeneration techniques, showcasing her dedication to advancing the field.

Meet Dr. Antara Daru >

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Dr. Fields

Dr. Fields, a native of Lexington, Kentucky, embarked on his dental journey at Georgetown College, where he earned a B.S. degree in biology/chemistry. He then pursued his passion for dentistry, graduating with a Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) from the University of Louisville in 1989. Additionally, he earned the prestigious Ma.C.S.D. degree, specializing in IV conscious sedation, showcasing his commitment to advancing his skills and knowledge for the benefit of his patients.

Meet Dr. Charles Fields >

Dr. Gupta

Dr. Gupta

Driven by a dedication to excellence, Dr. Gupta embarked on a transformative periodontal residency at the University of Detroit Mercy. Here, she earned her Master of Science and a certificate in Periodontics while simultaneously serving as an adjunct faculty for the School of Dentistry for three years. Her commitment to advancing dental knowledge took her to an international stage, where she presented groundbreaking research on clinical treatment for gum recession and root coverage at a prestigious conference in London.

Meet Dr. Vidushi Gupta > 

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Dr. Zalewsky

Following his military service, Dr. Zalewsky pursued advanced training at Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry. There, he earned a Certificate in Periodontics and Oral Implantology, along with a Master of Science in Oral Biology. This comprehensive training equipped him to handle intricate periodontal conditions and complex oral implant procedures with precision and skill.

Meet Dr. Justin Zalewsky >

Why Pinhole Surgery

Pinhole surgical technique is suggested for patients who have a gummy smile or who have developed periodontitis, resulting in gum recession. Periodontitis is an increasingly common inflammatory condition of the bone and gums surrounding the teeth. If left untreated, a number of issues can develop, such as swelling and/or bleeding gums, or gums to begin to recede. Gum recession occurs when the margin of gum tissue that surrounds your teeth begins to pull back or wear, resulting in more of your teeth or their roots being exposed.

In addition to longer looking teeth and visible roots, other common symptoms of gum recession include increased tooth sensitivity, bleeding, inflammation, and halitosis. An increasing number of studies also indicate that chronic inflammation of the gums can lead to systemic inflammation, which increases your risk of developing serious health issues, such as dementia, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, stroke, or heart disease.

Pinhole Surgical Technique Expectations

The Pinhole Surgical Technique procedure will begin with your periodontist making small holes (approximately 6-7 mm) directly in your gumline above your mucogingival junction. Once the holes have been made, they will use specialized instruments to reposition your gums into the desired position. Once your periodontist is satisfied with the positioning, collagen strips will be placed to bulk up and support the new position of the gum. The number of pinholes that will be required will depend upon how many teeth require attention, but each pinhole that is made can address three teeth.

Gum Graft vs Pinhole Surgical Technique

The traditional method for treating gum recession has been gum grafting, a procedure that involves removing healthy tissue from one area of the mouth and grafting that tissue onto the area(s) that require support. While gum grafting is an effective method for treating gum recession, Pinhole Surgical Technique has the same efficacy, but has the added value of being far less invasive, and has a much shorter recovery time, due to it
eliminating the need for cutting and stitches. Because it has the same level of efficacy as gum grafting while simultaneously reducing the patient’s recovery process, Pinhole Surgical Technique has become an increasingly popular treatment option.

Aftercare Following Pinhole Surgical Technique

As previously stated, one of the biggest benefits to the Pinhole Surgical Technique procedure is that recovery time is minimal, which means you will not have to alter your diet, and your gums should be fully healed in no time. Although it will not be necessary to follow special aftercare instructions, it is important to be aware of the reason this procedure was needed in the first place. Continue practicing good daily oral hygiene practices. Brush and floss twice daily, and schedule regular visits to your periodontist to ensure that your teeth receive regular professional cleanings, which will reduce your risk of developing gingivitis or periodontitis. If you follow these best practices, you will enjoy a bright and healthy smile for many years to come.

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We encourage you to contact us with any questions or comments you may have. Please call our office or use the quick contact form.

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Pinhole Surgical Technique Cost

The cost of your Pinhole Surgical Technique treatment will depend on a variety of factors, including your dental insurance plan, whether or not additional procedures are required, the severity of your case, and what type of dental sedation (if any) was used.

At Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, we are committed to ensuring that money is not a deterrent to our patients receiving the optimal dental health care they deserve. For this reason, we offer a range of payment options regardless of what type of treatment you are having, which our staff will be happy to explain and assist with. Our office insurance coordinators work with other insurance companies to assist patients with their claims.

For your convenience, Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry accepts cash, check, debit and credit cards (Mastercard, American Express, Visa, and Discover). Our clinic also accepts GreenSky Patient Solutions, a financing option for procedures and treatments not typically covered by insurance, or when insurance does not cover the entire cost. We are happy to provide an application in our office, you can find out more information about this service at https://www.greensky.com/patient-faq/.

Precision in Perio - 2019 Team

Providing you with Optimal Care

At Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, we are proud to provide optimal care for patients in the Washington D.C. and Alexandria, VA area, and are dedicated to collaborating with your dentist to provide you with the customized treatment you deserve. In addition to having state-of-the-art equipment, we are also committed to creating a peaceful and relaxing environment, with amenities such as personal movie screens, neck pillows, and soft blankets available regardless of what procedure you are having performed.

To schedule your appointment for Pinhole Surgical Technique, contact us today. We look forward to helping you achieve and maintain a bright and healthy smile!

Washington DC

2311 M Street NW Suite 500
Washington D.C. 20037
(202) 296-3360

Alexandria VA

4660 Kenmore Avenue #300
Alexandria, VA 22304
(703) 823-2422

Reston VA

1886 Metro Center Dr #610
Reston, VA 20190
(703) 689-4442