The full form of PST in the medical term is “Pinhole Surgical Technique.”
The Pinhole Surgical Technique, or PST, is a minimally invasive gum recession treatment. Developed by Dr. John Chao, this technique has revolutionized the way dentists and periodontists treat gum recession.
It is a common dental problem when the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, exposing the roots. It can occur due to various factors, including genetics, gum disease, aggressive brushing, and aging. Left untreated, gum recession can lead to tooth sensitivity, root decay, and even tooth loss.
The Pinhole Surgical Technique offers an alternative to traditional gum grafting. Instead of removing tissue from the roof of the mouth, the dentist makes a small pinhole in the gum tissue above the affected teeth. The dentist gently loosens the gum tissue using specialized instruments and slides it down to cover the exposed root. Tiny collagen strips are placed underneath the gums to hold them in place while they heal.
One of the main advantages of the Pinhole Surgical Technique is that it is minimally invasive. Unlike gum grafting, which requires significant incisions and sutures, the Pinhole Surgical Technique can be performed through a small pinhole. Patients experience less pain and discomfort during the procedure, and the recovery period is much shorter.
Another benefit of the Pinhole Surgical Technique is that it can be performed on multiple teeth in a single session. Patients can treat all their gum recessions simultaneously rather than undergoing multiple surgeries.