Periodontal disease affects millions of patients and remains one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. Characterized by chronic inflammation, soft tissue damage, and bone loss, gum disease has traditionally been managed with mechanical cleaning, antibiotics, and surgery. While these methods are effective for many, a new and exciting area of research is emerging: immunotherapy.
Immunotherapy in Periodontal Care: A Beacon of Hope
Immunotherapy refers to treatments that target the body’s immune response rather than the bacteria alone. In the case of gum disease, the body’s immune system often overreacts to bacterial buildup, leading to the destruction of healthy gum and bone tissue. By adjusting or “retraining” this immune response, scientists believe we can minimize damage and improve healing outcomes.
“By targeting the immune system with compounds like CCL2, we may be able to reduce harmful inflammation in the gums and support tissue repair,” explains Dr. Marielaina Perrone, DDS, a cosmetic and periodontal dentist in Henderson, NV.
Current Developments in CCL2 Therapy
Researchers are developing CCL2-based therapies that encourage the body to produce a more balanced, anti-inflammatory, immune response. In preclinical studies, a slow-release CCL2 microparticle was administered directly to the site of periodontal inflammation. Results showed a measurable reduction in bone loss and even signs of bone regeneration.
This treatment method is unique in that it doesn't kill bacteria but helps the body respond to bacterial presence in a less destructive way. The concept of immunomodulation — adjusting the body’s immune function rather than eliminating pathogens — is being studied across medicine, including cancer and autoimmune diseases. Dentistry may be next in line to benefit.
For dentists and periodontists, immunotherapy presents a new potential tool to address the host response, often missing in chronic periodontitis cases. While scaling and root planing will remain foundational, the addition of immune-modulating treatments could:
- Reduce recurrence of inflammation
- Accelerate tissue healing
- Improve bone preservation in moderate to severe cases
- Minimize the need for surgical intervention
“This approach could fill a critical gap between controlling infection and promoting healing,” says Dr. Perrone. “By modulating host response, we aim to preserve tissue—and smiles.”
Considerations and Next Steps
Although these findings are promising, it's important to note that immunotherapy for gum disease is still in the experimental phase. Human trials will be necessary to confirm safety, efficacy, and long-term outcomes. Potential risks, such as adverse immune reactions or unintended immune system changes, should also be considered. Dentists should remain aware of this evolving field and its future potential, particularly for patients who suffer from aggressive or recurrent forms of periodontitis.
It’s also important to consider how such treatments might integrate with existing care protocols. As these therapies move toward clinical use, questions around cost, accessibility, and treatment timing will need to be answered.
The Oral-Systemic Health Connection
As dental professionals, we increasingly know how oral health is connected to systemic well-being. Chronic gum inflammation has been linked to cardiovascular disease and diabetes and, more recently, may even influence outcomes in other areas of medical treatment. By targeting inflammation through immunotherapy, we may also open the door to broader health benefits for our patients.
Immunotherapy: Pioneering a New Era in Periodontal Care
About Dr. Marielaina Perrone, DDS
Dr. Marielaina Perrone is a leading family and cosmetic dentist in Henderson, NV, with over two decades of clinical experience. Her practice focuses on comprehensive dental care, including advanced periodontal therapy, dental implants, and smile makeovers. She is passionate about integrating innovation and evidence-based care into everyday dentistry.