The British Columbia Society of Periodontists is a voluntary organization representing certified periodontal specialists in British Columbia. Our primary mission is to support both the providers and recipients of specialized periodontal care within the province. We serve as the authoritative voice for British Columbia Periodontists, engaging with organized dental associations, recognized educational institutions, professional licensing bodies, as well as the public and government.

Periodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry focused on preventing, diagnosing, and treating periodontal diseases as well dental implants. A Periodontist is a dentist who has undergone rigorous training, involving an additional 3 years beyond dental school, specifically dedicated to the treatment of periodontal disease. Moreover, they possess expertise in surgically placing dental implants for tooth replacement and conducting cosmetic periodontal procedures. Periodontists collaborate closely with your dentist to ensure you receive the highest standard of oral health care.

Periodontal disease, also known as gum diseases, are bacterial infections affecting the gums. They lead to the deterioration of attachment fibers and the supporting bone that anchor the teeth in the mouth. The primary cause of these conditions is bacterial plaque, a sticky, colorless film that continuously forms on the teeth. Maintaining daily oral care at home, which includes proper brushing and flossing, in addition to regular professional check-ups, can effectively prevent plaque accumulation. When plaque hardens, it forms calculus, commonly known as tartar. Professional cleaning is necessary to remove calculus both above and below the gumline.
Periodontal diseases have the potential to impact a single tooth or multiple teeth. In the initial stages, there is typically no pain. However, as the condition progresses, it leads to the deterioration of the bone and supporting tissues around the teeth. This can result in unpleasant symptoms such as bad breath, red, swollen, and bleeding gums, and ultimately, tooth loss. Additional indications of periodontal diseases include gums that have receded from the teeth, the presence of pus between the teeth and gums (often accompanied by a bitter taste), changes in how your teeth align when you bite, and alterations in the fit of partial dentures. It’s noteworthy that over 75% of adults over the age of 35 are affected by some form of periodontal disease.

Your initial appointment with your periodontist serves as an important information-gathering session. The session will commence with a comprehensive discussion about your medical history, past and current dental practices, social history, and oral hygiene routine. We are keen to understand your specific concerns regarding your gums, teeth, and smile, as well as any particular goals you have in mind for your treatment. Additionally, a detailed assessment of your periodontal (gum) condition will be conducted, including a thorough review of your radiographs.
During this visit, your doctor will conduct a comprehensive clinical examination, carefully evaluating your oral tissues for any irregularities or signs of potential issues, including cancer. Precise measurements will be taken, encompassing factors such as tooth mobility, gum tissue color and tone, pocket depths, areas of gingival recession, and root exposure. This data, in conjunction with the information from your radiographs, will form the basis of your periodontal diagnosis. This diagnosis will encompass an overall assessment of your periodontal health, as well as the prognosis for each individual tooth.
Your doctor will then engage in a detailed discussion of all available treatment options, ensuring you have a comprehensive understanding of the benefits and potential risks associated with each one.