Gingivitis is an early stage of periodontitis. It is usually caused by an accumulation of bacteria (dental plaque) around teeth and is often reversible with the use of proper oral hygiene techniques. During gingivitis, gums appear red, bleed easily, are inflamed and sensitive. No bone or support loss around teeth is apparent to the treating dentist or specialist at this stage.
If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis. The bacteria present (dental plaque) progress under the gumline and form “pockets” by creating space between the tooth and the gums. Bone and support loss are evident during professional examinations. Periodontitis is an irreversible condition. The losses and damages encountered can only be contained and never fully restored. If left unchecked, periodontitis can lead to the loss of one or more teeth.
Even if periodontitis often is an asymptomatic disease, the following signs and symptoms can indicate the need for you to consult a dentist or a specialist in periodontics:
It depends on the severity and the extent of your condition. Ask your general dentist if his or her expertise includes the management of your periodontal disease.
Generally, people who present few risk factors and have early periodontitis are taken under the care of their general dentist. However, people who possess multiple risk factors, or who have advanced periodontitis need to consult a periodontist.
In either case, you can schedule an appointment with us, without a referral from your general dentist to obtain the answers to any questions about your periodontal health.
The simple answer is no. However, the bacteria responsible for periodontitis can be transmitted between people through saliva. For individuals who possess risk factors for periodontitis, it is ideal to minimize salivary transmission by not sharing beverages or toothbrushes. The presence of bacteria alone will not cause the disease; many factors are important, including genetic predispositions, for a person to develop periodontitis.
It is preferable for you to be directed to our clinic through your general dentist or a specialist familiar with your situation, as they will be able to inform us of the reason for your referral as well as provide important information pertaining to your case, including relevant X-rays. This type of collaboration between professionals allows for the communication of important information before your first appointment.
Assessment and treatment costs at the clinic are based on the fee guide of the Fédération des Dentistes Spécialistes du Québec. It is imperative that a complete periodontal assessment be conducted in order to specifically target your personal needs. As well, X-rays may be necessary to complete the assessment. An estimate of required treatments will be provided following the initial assessment and will be valid for a calendar year.
It is important that you contact your insurance provider with your estimate in order to understand the coverage you are provided with, as these can vary between companies. Most providers cover a majority of our treatments, ranging from 50 to 80% of the overall associated costs. It is important to note that none of the treatments offered are covered by the RAMQ.
Fees are usually fully paid at each appointment. Patients are then provided with a receipt that they can forward to their insurance provider to obtain any reimbursements covered under their insurance plan. Our team will be able to assist you with this process.
If you are one of our patients and are worried about a treatment you recently received, it is important you consult the post-operation instructions that were provided to you after your surgery. Answers to frequently asked questions are found within that document.
If bleeding continues after your surgery, apply pressure to the affected area for 20 to 30 minutes using the sterile compresses that were provided. It is also possible to use a moist bag of black tea instead of the sterile compresses.
Take the appropriate dose of recommended medication, at the indicated times; pain management is significantly more difficult when medication is delayed or omitted.
It is normal to notice swelling at the site of surgery on the inside of your mouth and on the exterior of your face. This type of swelling often peaks between the third and fifth days after your operation. Usually, it will stabilize and decrease over the next few days. Apply ice for 15-20 minutes every hour within the first 24 hours after your surgery to help manage the inflammation.
Do not hesitate to contact us and our team will be happy to assist you: 450-463-0333.
You can reach your periodontist, either Dr. Maud Lassonde or Dr. Émilie Vachon, on their personal phones using the numbers found on the post-operation instruction sheets provided on the day of your surgery.
Contact your general dentist if you are unable to reach us, they will know how to answer any questions you may have.
