A periodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on periodontics and implantology and has undergone three to four years of graduate training upon the completion of a general dentistry program.
The title of periodontist, as well as that of any other dental specialty, is only awarded by the Royal College of Dentists of Canada, as is the case of Drs. Lassonde and Vachon.
Periodontics is the dental specialty that encompasses the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of periodontal diseases, which affect gums and their underlying bone structures, which support your teeth.
Its aim is to ensure that these foundational structures are healthy. In addition, this field involves the planning, implanting and maintaining of dental implants.
Periodontitis is an inflammation of the tissues that surround and support your teeth, including your gums, bones and supporting fibres. About 50% of people over the age of 30 present one form or another of periodontal disease, making it the leading cause of tooth loss in adults, as opposed to cavities (tooth decay).
Periodontitis is a bacterial disease that occurs most often when immune mechanisms are weakened. Generally, with healthy living and proper oral hygiene, the immune system is able to maintain periodontal health and balance. When this balance between bacteria and the immune system is disturbed, an inflammation of the gums, gingivitis, occurs and progressively spreads towards bone tissues causing infected “pockets” between the gums and teeth. This is periodontitis. Without appropriate treatments, periodontitis can lead to bone loss, gum recessions and even tooth loss.
In order to provide an accurate diagnosis and design a treatment plan that targets your specific needs, a thorough periodontal evaluation is required.
This procedure, which involves X-rays and a clinical analysis, is necessary to establish the baseline for your treatment and is usually completed within one or two sessions.
