What is a Periodontist?

About Periodontists

With a variety of medical practitioners specializing in oral care, a Periodontist specializes in the health of the gums and tissue surrounding the teeth. Periodontists provide diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease, oral inflammation, and infection of the gums.

In an examination, a Periodontist inspects the gums for any recession or loose teeth and checks how the teeth bite together. The periodontist will assess the health of the gums, supporting tissue (periodontium), and the bone below the gum line using a variety of different techniques including manual checks and also employing the use of X-ray imaging.

Conditions treated by a Periodontist include severe gum disease, gingivitis, periodontitis, receding gums, swollen or bleeding gums, and the effects on the health of the teeth and gums due to disorders and illness such as addiction, smoking, diabetes mellitus as well as hormonal and genetic changes.

Treatments provided by Periodontists include scaling and root planing to remove infection as well as removal of infected or damaged tissue using a range of surgical procedures. Periodontists perform the placement and repair of dental implants as well as cosmetic procedures for the gums.

As experts within the field of oral healthcare, Periodontists often consult and work alongside other specialists such as Dentists, Orthodontists, Oral Surgeons, Rheumatologists, and Family Doctors/General Practitioners to provide combined, holistic treatment for patients.

Useful Resources

Canada

Canadian Dental Association

Canadian Academy of Periodontology

British Columbia

Alberta

Saskatchewan

Manitoba

Ontario

Quebec

Newfoundland and Labrador

New Brunswick