Periodontology

8000, boul. Langelier
Bureau 222
Montréal (Québec)
H1P 3K2

Periodontology is a dental specialty that studies and treats the support system of the tooth, comprising mainly of the gums and jawbone, that we call “the periodontium”.

PERIODONTIST

Periodontists such as Dr. Messier and Dr. Emde are dental specialists who limit their practice to the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of problems related to the support system of the tooth (gum and jaw bones). Periodontists treat children, adolescents and adults, as periodontal problems can occur at all ages.

To obtain the title of Periodontist in Canada, Dr. Messier and Dr. Emde had to complete a Doctorate in Dental Medicine for a period of 5 years. Thereafter, they had to successfully complete their studies at a full-time post-doctoral level for three years in a specialty program recognized by the Canadian Dental Association. Finally, Dr. Messier and Dr. Emde had to successfully pass the examination of the Royal College of Dentists of Canada (FRCDC), to be appointed the title of Fellow.

PERIODONTAL DISEASE

Periodontal disease is a complex condition by which the gums and the jaw bone of a susceptible patient are destroyed in reaction to an infection caused by bacteria present on the teeth and in the mouth commonly called dental plaque. To defend against this infection, the human body develops an immune / inflammatory response that contributes to the appearance of redness, bleeding and swelling of the gums, and ultimately to bone loss around teeth. Uncontrolled progression of bone loss will eventually cause the loss of the teeth. Periodontal disease is the cause of about 70% of tooth loss in adults. A recent study found that half of the North American population is affected by periodontal disease. In the majority of situations, even a severe condition will not cause any pain. Hence, it is a condition where diagnosis and treatment are of capital importance.

RISK FACTORS

Risk factors associated to the development of periodontal disease:

	Presenting a fragility or immune susceptibility to the development of periodontal diseases (genetic predisposition)		Bacteria from dental plaque that bond to the teeth and migrate under the gums without causing any symptoms
	Diabetes (especially if not well-controlled)		Smoking
	Stress		Hormonal changes (pregnancy, menopause)

Presenting a fragility or immune susceptibility to the development of periodontal diseases (genetic predisposition)

Bacteria from dental plaque that bond to the teeth and migrate under the gums without causing any symptoms

Diabetes (especially if not well-controlled)

Smoking

Stress

Hormonal changes (pregnancy, menopause)