Ontario Society of Periodontists
The Ontario Society of Periodontists (OSP) is the voluntary organization of certified periodontal specialists in Ontario whose mission is to serve the providers and recipients of specialty periodontal care in the Province of Ontario. It is the official voice of Ontario Periodontists to organized dental associations, recognized education institutions, professional licensing bodies, the government and to the public.
What is Periodontology?
PERIODONTICS is a specialty of dentistry, which deals with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases of the periodontal tissues that support and surround the teeth or their substitutes. It involves the maintenance of the health, function and aesthetics of these structures and tissues. It also involves the replacement of lost teeth and supporting structures by grafting or implantation of natural and synthetic devices and materials, and the surgical placement of dental implants.
What are Periodontal Diseases?
Periodontal diseases, also known as gum diseases are bacterial gum infections that destroy the attachment fibers and supporting bone that hold the teeth in the mouth. The main cause of these diseases is bacterial plaque, a sticky, colourless film that constantly forms on the teeth. Daily home oral care, including proper brushing and flossing with regular professional care can prevent plaque build-up. When plague is not removed, it hardened to form calculus (tartar). Professional cleaning is required to remove calculus above and below the gums.
Periodontal diseases can affect one tooth or many teeth. The early stage is painless. At a more advanced stage, bone and supporting tissues of the teeth are destroyed. Periodontal diseases can result in bad breath; red, swollen and bleeding gums and eventually teeth loss. Other signs of periodontal diseases include gums that have been pulled away from the teeth, pus between teeth and gums (leaving a bad taste), a change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite, and a change in the fit of partial dentures. More than 75% of adults over age 35 have some form of periodontal disease.
What is the Treatment?
A comprehensive examination, including reviews of medical and dental histories, clinical examination, radiographic analysis and other systemic factors is required to diagnose periodontal diseases. Once the periodontal status has been evaluated, your periodontist will recommend the best treatment options to control the progression of periodontal diseases. The treatment goals are to re-establish good oral health and to maintain it.
| For more information: The public and the profession of dentistry is invited to visit our website at: www.osp.on.ca |
