Pinhole Gum Surgery in Sugar Land, Texas

The Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique (PST®) is a minimally invasive treatment for restoring receding gums. Unlike painful and invasive gum grafting surgeries, the Pinhole® procedure is minimally invasive. Invented and patented by John Chao, D.D.S., it is a scalpel-free, suture-free procedure for treating gum recession.

This procedure is performed by making a small hole with a needle in the gum tissue. Using specially designed instruments, the gum tissue is loosened and guided over the receded part of the tooth. Since there is no incision or suturing, patients can expect minimal post-operative symptoms (pain, swelling and bleeding). Most patients also are pleasantly surprised by the instant cosmetic improvement.

Pinhole® not only improves the appearance of your smile, but it also protects your teeth from further deterioration. The results can last for years, providing long-term benefits for patients. Recovery times are also minimal compared to gum grafting, and patients will typically return to normal activities within 24-48 hours.

Good candidates include:

• Older adults on high blood pressure medication
  
• Patients with arthritis
  
• Diabetics looking to improve oral health and glucose stability

Not ideal candidates include:

• Patients with autoimmune conditions like lupus or Sjögren’s
  
• Individuals who have had chemotherapy in the past 5 years
  
• Pregnant women in their 1st or 3rd trimester
• Those who have received head or neck radiation

• If you are diabetic, opt for a provider who uses laser treatment (which we do at Fort Bend Perio) for a minimally invasive experience that will help keep your reaction and recovery manageable.
• When meeting with a potential provider, use your best judgment and listen to your gut. If you feel the treatment plan is unnecessarily complicated, don’t hold back on getting a second opinion for confirmation.

Traditional gum grafting involves cutting and stitching tissue from the roof of the mouth to the affected area. It typically requires multiple incisions which can be quite painful and requires more time to heal. Pinhole Surgery is a lot less invasive than traditional gum grafting, resulting in less pain and swelling, and faster recovery times. It can often be completed in just one session and offers faster healing times.

At your consultation appointment at Fort Bend Perio, Dr. Dyer and Dr. Nguyen will conduct an exam, review your dental and medical history, and discuss your options with you so that you can feel confident in your treatment plan moving forward.

The following are underlying dental issues that may impact your final cost of treatment:

Problem: Clenching and grinding
Solution: Fixing your bite
Cost: $1030 in addition to the pinhole surgery cost

Problem: Poor oral hygiene
Solution: We may recommend that you get a new toothbrush and mouthwash and educate you on proper brushing techniques
Cost: You’ll only pay for the cost of the toothbrush and mouthwash. Total cost for the products we recommend will be $200.

Problem: Gum infection due to gum disease and bone loss
Solution: Infection treatment
Cost: Up to $2500 per quadrant

Important note: These numbers are just estimates, and they are not an accurate quote for cost. Please call 281.980.2344 to schedule a consultation to receive an accurate treatment plan with the exact cost.

Yes, we offer financing options. Please check our finance page for more details.