
Chao Pinhole Surgery
Traditionally, gum recession treatments require soft tissue grafting, sutures, and an extensive recovery period.
Instead of traditional gum grafting, Dr. Gary Kinder performs the innovative Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique to address gum recession.
Learn more about this minimally invasive approach offered at Living Life Dentistry in Knoxville, TN...
A Better Solution to Gum Recession
No Scalpels
The Pinhole Surgical Technique involves no scalpels or sutures. It also doesn't require the removal of soft tissue grafts from other parts of your mouth. This means the procedure is more comfortable, has a lower risk of bleeding and other complications, and results in a quicker recovery.
Treat Multiple Teeth
Have your gums receded over multiple teeth? With typical gum grafting, you may require several treatments to address one tooth at a time. On the other hand, with the Pinhole Surgical Technique, Dr. Kinder can often treat your entire mouth during one procedure.
Great Results
Pinhole gum surgery produces a natural-looking, long-lasting gum line after just one procedure. You should be able to notice a difference in your smile immediately after the treatment.
Chao Pinhole Technique Before & After


What Is Gum Recession?
Gum recession is the loss of soft tissue surrounding a tooth and along the gum line, exposing the base of the tooth and the tooth’s roots. When this happens, it causes gaps or pockets to form between the teeth and gum line. If left untreated, it can lead to dental sensitivity, plaque and bacteria buildup, tooth decay, tooth loss, and jawbone degeneration.
Causes & Treatment Options
Gum recession is generally caused by poor oral healthcare, hormonal changes, periodontal disease, aggressive tooth brushing, heredity, smoking, and the natural aging process. Once severe recession has occurred, the only way to restore the appearance and health of your gums is through traditional soft tissue grafting or the Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique.
What Is the Chao Pinhole Technique?
The Chao Pinhole Technique was created by Dr. John Chao as a minimally invasive procedure to treat receded gums. Dr. Gary Kinder in Knoxville, TN, has received special training in this technique and offers it to his patients at Living Life Dentistry.
The Pinhole Surgical Technique is scalpel-free, suture-free, and graft-free. It utilizes a small needle and a special dental instrument to gently slide the gums back into place.
The procedure typically takes about one to two hours, and you can return to your normal activities soon after. Here's what you can expect with the Pinhole Surgical Technique:
We are proud to offer a scalpel-free, suture-free, and graft-free solution.
Is the Pinhole Surgical Technique Right for You? First, You Need Healthy Gums
In order to qualify for the Pinhole Surgical Technique, you must have addressed any signs of active periodontal disease. At our Knoxville practice, we can help you achieve healthy gums through scaling and root planing or another periodontal procedure.
Hear from Our Patients Real 5-Star Reviews
I love this office of people! The care and expertise is top notch and you are an immediate friend! If you are looking for a dentist in the Knoxville area, you will be quite satisfied all around! My teeth are in good hands!
I had some questions about an upcoming procedure and the necessity of some of the items. Dr. Kinder took the time to explain them to me in detail and gave me the pros and cons of eliminating some of the processes. He gave me the information I needed to make an informed decision about what to do. Was very pleased.