Periodontal Surgery in Chestnut Hill, MA
Periodontal surgery is one of the most effective ways to treat advanced gum disease, restore damaged gum tissue, and protect your teeth for the long term. At Hammond Pond Dental Group in Chestnut Hill, MA, our multi-specialty team — including an in-house periodontist — combines experience with modern techniques to deliver gentle, precise, and lasting results.
If you’ve been diagnosed with gum disease, told you have “deep pockets,” or have tried deep cleanings without success, perio surgery may be the next step to save your smile. Call us today at (617) 762-5811 to schedule a consultation.
What Is Periodontal Surgery?
Periodontal surgery refers to a range of specialized procedures used to treat periodontitis (advanced gum disease), reduce infection, and repair the damage that gum disease causes to the soft tissue and supporting bone around your teeth.
Unlike a routine cleaning, periodontal surgery is performed by a trained periodontist and addresses disease that has progressed beyond what non-surgical care can manage. The general goals are to:
- Eliminate bacterial infection deep below the gumline
- Reduce pocket depth around teeth
- Restore a healthy foundation of gum tissue
- Prevent tooth loss and protect your overall health
Our periodontist will evaluate your case and recommend the most appropriate approach for you.
Signs You May Need Perio Surgery
Many patients don’t realize how advanced their gum disease has become until it’s diagnosed. Watch for these warning signs:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Chronic bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
- Gums that are pulling away from your teeth (recession)
- Pockets deeper than 5mm measured during dental exams
- Loose, shifting, or separating teeth
- Pus between your teeth and gums
- Changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait. Early intervention can often prevent the need for more extensive treatment down the road.
The Path from Non-Surgical Care to Surgery
Periodontal surgery isn’t always the first step. At Hammond Pond Dental Group, we believe in starting conservatively and escalating only when needed.
Step 1: Scaling and root planing. Also called a “deep cleaning,” this non-surgical procedure removes tartar and plaque from below the gumline. For many patients, this is enough to restore gum health.
Step 2: Periodontal maintenance. Ongoing cleanings every 3–4 months help manage gum disease and prevent it from progressing.
Step 3: Periodontal surgery. When deep pockets persist or damage has progressed too far, surgical treatment becomes the best option to save your teeth.
Why Perio Surgery Matters: The Oral-Systemic Connection
Gum disease isn’t just a dental issue — it’s a whole-body health concern. Research has linked untreated periodontitis to:
- Heart disease and stroke — Oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream and contribute to cardiovascular inflammation
- Diabetes — Gum disease and diabetes have a two-way relationship; each makes the other worse
- Respiratory illness — Bacteria from infected gums can be inhaled into the lungs
- Pregnancy complications — Periodontitis has been associated with preterm birth and low birth weight
Treating gum disease protects far more than your teeth — it supports your long-term health.
What to Expect at Hammond Pond Dental Group
We make the experience as comfortable and predictable as possible:
- Consultation and diagnosis — We perform a full periodontal evaluation, including digital imaging and pocket-depth measurements.
- Treatment planning — Your periodontist walks you through your options, answers questions, and builds a plan that fits your needs and goals.
- Local anesthesia — The treatment area is fully numbed. Sedation options are available for anxious patients.
- The procedure — Performed by our experienced periodontal team.
- Aftercare instructions — You’ll leave with detailed guidance on caring for your mouth during healing.
- Follow-up visits — We see you for checkups to monitor healing and long-term results.
Recovery After Periodontal Surgery
Most patients recover quickly and with minimal discomfort. General guidelines:
- Mild soreness and swelling for 2–3 days, managed with over-the-counter pain relievers
- Soft-food diet for about a week
- Gentle rinsing with warm salt water or prescribed mouthwash
- Avoid smoking, which dramatically slows healing
- Most people return to work the next day
- Full gum healing typically takes 4–6 weeks
Why Choose Hammond Pond Dental Group for Perio Surgery?
- Multi-specialty practice — General dentists, an in-house periodontist, and an endodontist collaborate under one roof for seamless care.
- Experienced team — Dr. Jennifer Chang Sullivan is our skilled periodontist dedicated to advanced gum care.
- Compassionate approach — We understand that periodontal surgery can feel intimidating, and we prioritize comfort at every step.
- Convenient Chestnut Hill location — Easy access from Newton, Brookline, Brighton, West Roxbury, and Greater Boston.
- Comprehensive care — From diagnosis to recovery to long-term maintenance, we’re with you every step of the way.
Periodontal Surgery FAQ
Is periodontal surgery painful?
No. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during surgery. Mild soreness afterward is normal but easily managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
How long does perio surgery take?
Most procedures take between 1 and 2 hours, depending on the type of treatment and how many teeth are being addressed.
Will my insurance cover periodontal surgery?
Most dental insurance plans cover a portion of medically necessary periodontal surgery. Our team will verify your benefits and explain your coverage before treatment begins.
How long do the results last?
With proper oral hygiene and regular periodontal maintenance visits (usually every 3–4 months), the results of periodontal surgery can last a lifetime.
What happens if I don’t get treatment?
Untreated gum disease continues to destroy the bone and tissue supporting your teeth, eventually leading to tooth loss and increasing your risk for serious systemic health issues.
Schedule Your Periodontal Consultation in Chestnut Hill
If you’ve been told you have gum disease, or you’re experiencing symptoms of periodontitis, don’t put treatment off. Early action can save your teeth — and your long-term health.
Call Hammond Pond Dental Group at (617) 762-5811 or request an appointment online. We proudly serve patients throughout Chestnut Hill, Newton, Brookline, Brighton, West Roxbury, and the Greater Boston area.
Why Choose Hammond Pond Dental Group for Periodontal Care?
- Board-certified periodontists on staff
- Advanced laser technology for gentle, precise treatment
- Multi-specialty expertise in implants, surgery, restorative care & prevention
- Convenient, comprehensive care in one Chestnut Hill location
- Warm, compassionate approach to ensure your comfort
- We’ll always do everything we can to see you quickly — especially for painful or urgent gum concerns
