Rachel Brinker, DMD Performs Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique in Mill Valley & Novato, California
Gum recession breakthrough treatment also known as Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation™ and Lunchtime Gum Lift™
The Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique (PST®), invented and patented by John Chao, D.D.S., 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.
To learn more about the Pinhole® Surgical Technique, please contact our office.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is gum recession?
Gum recession refers to the loss of gum tissue along the gumline. 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 gumline and beneath it. Since healthy gums are essential for a healthy mouth, getting gum recession treated is important for lasting dental wellness.
What is Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique?
The Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique is a minimally invasive option for treating gum recession. Unlike traditional grafting techniques, PST is scalpel and suture free.
All of the tools and techniques used to perform the Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique were created by Dr. John Chao.
How does 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 gumline. 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 gumline 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 patients palate.
- Excellent, natural-looking, long-lasting results.
Meet Rachel Brinker, DMD
Certified Pinhole Surgical Technique Periodontist Mill Valley & Novato, CA
Dr. Rachel Brinker is originally from Kentucky and found her way to Marin County after attending dental school and residency on the East Coast. Rachel received her D.M.D. degree from the Harvard School of Dental Medicine in Boston, MA and her Certificate in Periodontics from the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine in New York, NY.
Dr. Brinker has been practicing periodontics in Marin County for the past 10 years, originally in San Rafael, and now in her solo practice in Mill Valley. She appreciates and enjoys cultivating the relationships she develops and maintains with patients and colleagues. Dr. Brinker values the collaborations periodontics allows her to foster on a daily basis while helping patients achieve their treatment goals in a relaxed, attentive manner.
Rachel enjoys being in the outdoors and taking advantage of all that Marin has to offer. She runs, hikes, mountain bikes, enjoys crossfit, the beach, and anything active. Rachel also loves exploring Marin, and so much more, with her two young daughters, Sienna and Sabrina.
Mill Valley Location
655 Redwood Highway, Suite 110
Mill Valley, CA 94941
Novato Location
1805 Novato Blvd., Suite 5
Novato, CA 94947