Skip to main content

Signs You May Need to See a Periodontist

Gum disease is often painless in its early stages, which means many people do not realize there is a problem until it becomes more advanced. Watch for these warning signs and talk to your dentist if you notice any of them:

  • Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
  • Red, swollen, or puffy gums
  • Persistent bad breath that does not improve with brushing
  • Gums that appear to be pulling away from your teeth
  • Teeth that look longer than they used to
  • Loose or shifting teeth
  • Pain or sensitivity along the gum line
  • Visible tooth roots near the gum line

Your general dentist may identify signs of early gum disease during a routine exam and refer you to a periodontist for further evaluation and treatment. You can also schedule directly with our Natick periodontist if you have concerns about your gum health.

Gentle Dental Natick

1322 Worcester St.
Natick, MA 01760

Dental Office Hours

Monday 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Thursday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM 1st & 3rd
Sunday CLOSED
More Information

Large parking lot on-site at Sherwood Plaza.

Gentle Dental Natick

1322 Worcester St.
Natick, MA 01760

Dental Office Hours

Monday 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Thursday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM 1st & 3rd
Sunday CLOSED

More Information

Large parking lot on-site at Sherwood Plaza.

Gentle Dental Natick Reviews

  • PV

    Paul V

    Natick

    Always a good experience. I've been going to Gentle Dental for years. Good people. excellent

  • LV

    Lucius Verusopen

    Natick

    Dr Patel is the best 💖 she was able to see me right away and took care of my dental problems quickly and with care. Her staff is also great. They are all very helpful. I recommend her Gental Dental Office in Natick wholeheartedly! 🤗

  • MM

    Maria Moreiraopen

    Natick

    I had my cleaning with hygienist Shiwali Patel again yesterday, and she was great. So professional, understanding my fears and concerns, along with information how to take care of my gums and teeth. Over all staff they made me feel very comfortable. Absolutely I am coming back.

Periodontal Treatments at Gentle Dental Natick

Our Natick periodontist provides a full range of both nonsurgical and surgical periodontal treatments, tailored to the severity of your condition.

Periodontal Maintenance

For patients with a history of gum disease, routine periodontal cleanings every three to four months are often recommended to keep the condition in check. These appointments go beyond a standard cleaning. Your periodontist or hygienist will also measure gum pocket depths and monitor bone health to stay ahead of any progression.

Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is the most common nonsurgical treatment for early to moderate gum disease. Using local anesthesia to ensure your comfort, the hygienist cleans deep beneath the gum line to remove plaque and tartar where regular brushing cannot reach. The tooth root surfaces are then smoothed to discourage bacteria from reattaching and to encourage the gum tissue to heal and reattach to the teeth.

Gum Grafting

When gum recession exposes the root of a tooth, a gum graft can restore coverage and protect against further damage. Tissue typically taken from the roof of your mouth or sourced from a licensed tissue bank is placed at the site of recession to rebuild a healthy gum line, reduce sensitivity, and improve the appearance of your smile.

Pocket Reduction Surgery

For moderate to severe periodontitis, pocket reduction surgery allows the periodontist to access and thoroughly clean the deep areas of infection beneath the gum line that cannot be reached through scaling alone. The gum tissue is gently folded back, the area is cleaned and treated, and the tissue is repositioned and sutured into place.

Bone Grafting

When periodontal infection has eroded the bone that supports your teeth, a bone graft can stimulate regeneration and restore structural stability. This is often performed alongside other periodontal procedures and is also commonly used to prepare a site for a dental implant.

Crown Lengthening

Crown lengthening involves removing a small amount of gum tissue and, in some cases, underlying bone to expose more of the tooth surface. It is used both functionally, when a tooth breaks near the gum line and needs more structure to support a crown, and cosmetically, to correct a gummy smile or uneven gum line.

Dental Implants

Periodontists are among the most qualified specialists to place dental implants, given their expertise in the bone and tissue structures that support them. Our Natick periodontist can evaluate your candidacy and place implants as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Why Gum Health Matters More Than You Think

Gum disease does not just affect your mouth. Research has linked periodontal disease to an increased risk of systemic conditions including heart disease, diabetes complications, and other inflammatory conditions. Treating gum disease is not only about protecting your teeth, it is about protecting your overall health.

For patients with diabetes, heart conditions, or other health concerns, working closely with a periodontist can be an important part of managing their broader health alongside their medical team. Our Natick periodontist is experienced in treating patients with complex health histories and takes a coordinated, whole-patient approach to care.

Why Natick Patients Choose Gentle Dental for Periodontal Care

Specialist-Level Care, Conveniently Located

You do not have to travel far to see an experienced periodontist. Dr. Goldberg sees patients directly at our Natick location, so your specialist care stays within the same practice your family already trusts.

Multi-Specialty Practice Under One Roof

Periodontal care rarely happens in isolation. Our Natick team includes general dentists, an oral surgeon, and an orthodontist, allowing for seamless coordination when your treatment involves multiple specialties, with no referral runaround required.

Over 25 Years of Continuity

Dr. Goldberg has been with Gentle Dental for more than 25 years, giving Natick patients access to a periodontist who knows the practice, the team, and the community well.

Most Insurance Accepted

Gentle Dental of Natick is in-network with most major dental insurance plans. Our team will help you understand your coverage and minimize out-of-pocket costs before your treatment begins.

New Patient Offer Available

New to Gentle Dental? Ask about our $79 new patient offer, which includes an exam, X-rays, a cleaning, and a full treatment plan, a $400+ value.

Serving Natick and the MetroWest Area

Gentle Dental of Natick serves patients throughout MetroWest, Massachusetts, seeking specialist-level periodontal care close to home. If you are looking for a periodontist near Framingham, Wellesley, Wayland, Ashland, Holliston, Sherborn, or Marlborough, our Natick office is conveniently located and ready to help.

Dental Services in Natick

Gentle Dental in Natick offers preventive, restorative, emergency, and specialty dental care to help patients protect their oral health and maintain a confident smile.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I see a periodontist instead of my regular dentist?

You should consider seeing a periodontist if you have signs of gum disease, such as bleeding gums, swollen or tender gums, gum recession, persistent bad breath, loose teeth, or discomfort while chewing. A general dentist can help with routine dental care, but a periodontist has advanced training in diagnosing and treating gum-related conditions. Gentle Dental Natick has a periodontist on the team, making it easier for patients to access specialty gum care in the same office.

What treatments do periodontists in Natick offer?

Periodontists in Natick can help treat gum disease and support the health of the gums, bone, and tissues around the teeth. At Gentle Dental Natick, patients can access gum treatments, dental implants, extractions, and other restorative services in a multi-specialty office. The Natick team also provides preventive care, digital X-rays, cleanings, and comprehensive treatment planning to help identify gum concerns early and recommend the right care.

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Bring a valid ID, your dental insurance card (if applicable), and a list of any medications you're currently taking. Recent dental records or x-rays from another provider can also be helpful. Arriving a few minutes early gives time to complete any necessary paperwork.

Do Natick periodontists accept insurance?

Yes, Gentle Dental accepts most major dental insurance plans to help make quality care affordable, and can also help with CareCredit, membership plans, and extended payment options. Specific insurers listed include Aetna, Altus, Assurant, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Delta Dental, Guardian, MetLife, North East Delta Dental, United Concordia Dental, and United Healthcare.

Can I book a periodontist appointment online in Natick?

Booking is easy, contact the office by phone or book online, and the team will help find a time that works for you.

Book an Appointment

First Time at Any Gentle Dental?
Preferred Appointment Time(s)

If your request is a dental emergency, or you would like to call and schedule your dental appointment, contact information for our offices can be found here: Gentle Dental Locations. New patient offer not valid for emergency appointments.