Periodontal Disease Treatment in Brookline, MA
Save Your Teeth. Treat Gum Disease at Its Source.
Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults — yet it is largely preventable and treatable when caught early. At Pleasant Dental Associates in Brookline, MA, our board-certified periodontists specialize exclusively in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease. We offer a full spectrum of care from non-surgical deep cleaning to advanced periodontal surgery and tissue regeneration.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal (gum) disease is a bacterial infection of the gum tissue and bone that supports your teeth. It begins as gingivitis — redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums — and can progress to periodontitis, where bacteria destroy the bone and tissue holding your teeth in place.
Left untreated, periodontitis leads to loose teeth, tooth loss, and has been linked to serious systemic conditions including diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
Warning Signs of Gum Disease
• Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Persistent bad breath
• Gums pulling away from your teeth
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Pain when chewing
Many people have gum disease without obvious symptoms. Regular evaluation by a periodontist is the most reliable way to detect and treat it early.
Our Periodontal Disease Treatments
Scaling & Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)
The first line of treatment for most cases of gum disease is a thorough deep cleaning called scaling and root planing. Our hygienists and periodontists remove bacterial deposits from below the gum line and smooth root surfaces so that gums can reattach to the teeth.
Periodontal Surgery
When deep cleaning alone is insufficient, surgical intervention may be necessary. Our periodontists perform a range of procedures including pocket reduction surgery, osseous surgery, and flap surgery to access and clean deeply infected areas and reshape the supporting bone.
Tissue & Bone Regeneration
In cases where gum disease has destroyed bone and tissue, regenerative procedures can help restore what was lost. Using guided tissue regeneration membranes and bone grafting materials, we encourage your body to regrow the structures that support your teeth.
Periodontal Maintenance
After treatment, regular periodontal maintenance visits every 3–4 months are essential to prevent recurrence. These visits are different from a standard cleaning and are tailored to patients who have been treated for gum disease.
Why Choose Pleasant Dental Associates for Gum Disease?
• Periodontists — not general dentists — managing your gum disease from day one
• Dr. Chiu's master's degree research focused specifically on the relationship between diabetes and periodontitis
• Full spectrum of treatment from non-surgical to advanced surgical options
• Academic faculty at Boston University — staying current with the latest evidence-based techniques
• Coordination with your general dentist and other specialists when needed
Frequently Asked Questions — Periodontal Disease
Q: Can gum disease be cured?
A: Gingivitis, the early stage, can be reversed with professional treatment and improved home care. Advanced periodontal disease cannot be fully reversed, but it can be successfully managed and controlled with proper treatment and maintenance to prevent further damage.
Q: Is gum disease linked to other health conditions?
A: Yes. Research has established strong associations between periodontal disease and systemic conditions including Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, stroke, respiratory disease, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Managing gum disease may help improve these conditions.
Q: How often should I see a periodontist if I have gum disease?
A: Most patients with a history of gum disease benefit from periodontal maintenance visits every three to four months rather than the standard twice-yearly cleaning. Your periodontist will recommend a schedule based on your individual needs.
Q: Does gum disease treatment hurt?
A: Most periodontal procedures are performed under local anesthesia. Deep cleaning may cause some sensitivity afterward, but the procedure itself is comfortable. Surgical procedures may involve mild post-operative soreness that resolves within a few days.
📅 Ready to Get Started?
Pleasant Dental Associates is now accepting new patients. $259 New Patient Special.
Call 617-975-3399 | 1318 Beacon Street Suite 20, Brookline, MA 02446
Book online: dental4.me/pleasantdental/1