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Meet Dr. Melissa L. Pecoraro, DMD
Periodontist & Implant Specialist
Born and raised in New Jersey, Dr. Melissa L. Pecoraro always aspired to follow in the footsteps of her father, Dr. Frank Pecoraro. Before beginning her formal dental training, she spent more than six years assisting her father in his practice—gaining invaluable hands-on insight into patient care and clinical excellence.
In 2004, Dr. Pecoraro officially joined her father as a practicing periodontist. Following his retirement, she stepped into his leadership role to carry on the family tradition: offering patient-first, compassionate periodontal care paired with the highest standards of modern dental science.
Education & Academic Leadership
Dr. Pecoraro’s path toward periodontics began with a strong background in biological sciences:Undergraduate Degree: B.S. in Biology from Lafayette College (Easton, PA)
Master’s Degree: M.S. in Biology from Fairleigh Dickinson University (Madison, NJ)
Doctorate of Dental Medicine (DMD): University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ), Class of 2001.
Specialty Residency: Advanced Program in Periodontics and Implantology at UMDNJ (2004), where she was honored to serve as Chief Resident
LANAP trained surgeon in non-invasive periodontal surgery
Dr. Pecoraro remains deeply connected to her alma mater, serving as a Clinical Professor and the Alumni Representative for her dental school class. Throughout her academic career, she consistently held executive leadership positions.
Clinical Research & Community Education
Dr. Pecoraro prioritizes staying at the forefront of clinical advancements to deliver exceptional outcomes for her patients:
Published Researcher: Primary author of published clinical research evaluating digital versus conventional radiography in detecting periodontal bone loss.
Keynote Speaker: Invited lecturer on periodontal disease at the annual New York University symposium, presenting to residents across four dental institutions.
Public Health Educator: Guest speaker on local television broadcasts to raise public awareness about periodontal disease and oral-systemic health.
Peer Educator: Actively sponsors and leads continuing education courses for fellow dental professionals.
"Healthy gums serve as the vital bedrock for a radiant smile and complete vitality. I am dedicated to empowering my patients with the expertise and treatment essential to preserving their oral health for years to come."
- Dr. Melissa L. Pecoraro
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