Pinhole® Technique

The Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique at GPlus Dental Clinic

Pinhole® Gum Surgery, also known as the Pinhole® Surgical Technique (PST), is a minimally invasive approach to treating gum recession without traditional cutting or sutures.
At GPlus Dental Clinic, Pinhole® gum surgery is performed as part of a carefully evaluated, conservative treatment plan, with emphasis on long-term gum health and stability.

Led by Experience: Dr. James Ho

Pinhole surgery is an art form that requires extreme precision. Dr. James Ho was among the early wave of global clinicians trained directly by the inventor of the technique, Dr. John Chao, in 2015.

Why this matters for you:

  • Decade of Mastery: Since 2015, Dr. Ho has integrated Pinhole® surgery into routine clinical care across his practices in Palo Alto, USA and Singapore.
  • Global Perspective: By practicing in two of the world’s leading dental hubs, Dr. Ho brings international standards of clinical judgment to every case at GPlus.
  • Refined Selection: Experience means knowing exactly who will get the best results, ensuring your treatment is predictable and stable.

Dr. Ho currently practises between Palo Alto (USA) and Singapore, bringing international clinical exposure and experience to patient care at GPlus Dental Clinic.

Why Experience Matters with the Pinhole® Technique

Although minimally invasive, Pinhole® gum surgery requires:

  • Precise handling of delicate gum tissue
  • Accurate assessment of gum thickness and recession severity
  • Judgement on when Pinhole® is appropriate — and when it is not

Experience plays a critical role in achieving predictable outcomes. At GPlus Dental Clinic, treatment recommendations are made only after a comprehensive evaluation and discussion of all suitable options.

What Is Pinhole® Gum Surgery?

Pinhole® gum surgery is designed to reposition existing gum tissue to cover exposed tooth roots.

No Scalpels or Sutures
By eliminating the need for incisions, we preserve the integrity of your oral tissue and significantly reduce healing time.
Does not involve tissue harvesting from the palate
Traditional grafting often requires removing tissue from the roof of the mouth. PST utilizes your existing gum tissue nearby.
Focuses on preserving natural gum tissue
Traditional grafting often requires removing tissue from the roof of the mouth. PST utilizes your existing gum tissue nearby.

How the Procedure Works?

A sophisticated, multi-step process engineered for comfort and lasting results.
Pinhole Opening
A small pinhole-sized opening is made in the gum tissue

01

Repositioning Gums
Using specialized patented instruments, the existing gum tissue is gently loosened and advanced to cover areas of recession.

02

Collagen Placement
Collagen may be placed to help stabilise the tissue during healing

03

Who May Be Suitable for Pinhole® Gum Surgery?

Pinhole® gum surgery may be suitable for patients who:
Have mild to moderate gum recession
Experience exposed roots or sensitivity
Prefer a minimally invasive approach
Have sufficient existing gum tissue
*Not all cases are suitable. A professional assessment is essential.

Benefits of Pinhole® Gum Surgery

Shorter recovery time

Minimally invasive treatment

Reduced post-treatment discomfort

Shorter recovery time

Minimally invasive treatment

What to Expect After Treatment

Most patients experience:
  • Minimal discomfort
  • Little to no bleeding
  • Faster recovery compared to conventional gum grafting
Post-treatment care instructions are provided to support long-term stability.

Origin of the Technique

The Pinhole® Surgical Technique was developed in the United States by Dr. John Chao, who pioneered a minimally invasive approach to gum recession treatment and patented both the technique and its specialised instruments.

Today, the technique is practised internationally by trained clinicians and continues to evolve through clinical experience.

Ready for a Healthier Smile?

Take the first step toward restoring your oral health with a minimally invasive approach. Schedule your private consultation with Dr. James Ho today.
AVAILABLE IN PALO ALTO & SINGAPORE