Dr. Andrea Margaret Johnstone – Dentist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Andrea Margaret Johnstone is a Periodontist. Practicing at Johnstone Periodontics in Toronto, ON, Dr. Johnstone is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Johnstone is licensed by The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of the dental profession in ON. As a certified specialist in Periodontics, Dr. Johnstone focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal (gum) diseases, gingivitis, and periodontitis. Services include non-surgical and surgical periodontal therapies, gum grafting, bone grafting, and the surgical placement and maintenance of dental implants, as well as management of peri-implant diseases. Dr. Johnstone serves patients of all ages, from newborns and infants through to children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. For patient convenience, direct billing to many major dental insurance plans may be available at Johnstone Periodontics.

Dr. Andrea Margaret Johnstone earned a Dental Degree from University Of Western Ontario, graduating in 2002. This was followed by specialized training in advanced specialty training in Periodontist at the University of Toronto in 2007. With over 23 years of practice since 2002, Dr. Johnstone's expertise has grown. Additionally, this specialist holds certifications/authorizations for: Parenteral Conscious Sedation - 1 Drug Option; Dentoalveolar CT Scans. Dr. Johnstone is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Johnstone's dental practice philosophy include: fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, ensuring patients are fully informed and involved in their treatment plans; tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient. Dr. Johnstone provides consultations in English.

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Periodontics & Implant Surgery, Dr. Andrea Margaret Johnstone addresses specific and often complex oral health conditions such as:

Peri Implantitis Mucositis

• Inflammation or Infection Around Dental Implants (Peri-Implant Mucositis/Peri-Implantitis): Seeking treatment from a periodontist or implant specialist for problems affecting the health of dental implants.

Receding Gums Bone Loss

• Significant Gum Recession or Localized Jawbone Loss Requiring Augmentation: Noticeable and progressive gum recession exposing sensitive tooth roots, or insufficient jawbone volume in areas of missing teeth (often due to previous extractions or gum disease), requiring surgical grafting procedures (soft tissue grafts for gums, bone grafts for jawbone) by a periodontist or oral surgeon to restore tissue, improve aesthetics, facilitate implant placement, or prevent further deterioration.

Complex Dental Diagnosis Needs

• Need for Detailed 3D Imaging for Diagnosis or Treatment Planning (CBCT): Dental situations where standard 2D X-rays (bitewings, panoramic) are insufficient and a 3D Cone Beam CT (CBCT) scan is required for accurate diagnosis, assessment of anatomical complexities, or detailed planning of complex treatments like implants, orthodontics, or endodontics.

Dental Implant Complications

• Complications with Existing Dental Implants (e.g., Peri-implantitis, Loosening, Fracture): Experiencing issues such as persistent inflammation, infection (peri-implant mucositis or peri-implantitis), bone loss, pain, or mobility around existing dental implants, or problems with the implant crown or prosthesis (e.g., loosening, fracture), requiring specialist evaluation and treatment by a periodontist, prosthodontist, or oral surgeon.

This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Johnstone. If your specific oral health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs and appropriate treatment options.

• Comprehensive Periodontal Examination & Diagnosis: Specialist evaluation to determine the extent and severity of periodontal disease and create a tailored treatment plan.
• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Comprehensive advice on preventing gum inflammation and infection for lifelong oral health and overall well-being.
• Dental Photography & Intraoral Camera Imaging: Using specialized dental cameras to provide clear, magnified images of your teeth and gums, enhancing diagnosis and patient education.
• Digital X-rays & Radiography (Intraoral & Extraoral): Comprehensive dental imaging services, including panoramic and intraoral X-rays, to aid in accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.
• Gum Grafting Surgery (Connective Tissue Grafts, Free Gingival Grafts): Surgical procedures to treat gum recession by transplanting gum tissue from the palate or other donor sources to cover exposed tooth roots, reducing sensitivity, preventing further recession and bone loss, and improving aesthetics.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Johnstone. Not all services may be listed, and the suitability of any treatment depends on individual assessment. For a comprehensive understanding or to discuss your specific dental needs, please schedule a consultation.

All dental services by Dr. Andrea Margaret Johnstone adhere to scope of practice for Periodontists in ON and standards of The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO).

As a specialist in Specialty Practice in Periodontics & Implant Surgery, Dr. Johnstone is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At Johnstone Periodontics, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• Patients presenting with their gums appearing red, swollen, or inflamed in certain areas of their mouth can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of their jaw feeling less stiff and more mobile after TMJ therapy or a custom oral appliance under Dr. Johnstone's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume their child participating happily in school photos and social activities without the former limitations or discomfort.
• Effectively addressing a desire to discuss options for a comprehensive 'smile makeover' to address multiple aesthetic concerns with Dr. Johnstone's comprehensive dental approach often leads to the desired outcome of their gums looking pink and healthy again after treatment for gingivitis or early gum disease, enabling patients to more freely and confidently engage in their gums feeling healthy and looking good, contributing to overall oral wellness and social interactions.
• When a dental problem or discomfort that they had been avoiding or putting off addressing for far too long starts to interfere with daily life, such as affecting their ability to their dentures allowing them to enjoy a more diverse and nutritious diet, Dr. Johnstone and the team work collaboratively with patients. Success is marked by their child's dental emergency being handled swiftly and compassionately, minimizing distress and a return to comfort and confidence.
• Managing an old dental bridge that felt loose, uncomfortable, or was showing signs of wear and tear effectively and proactively is a top priority for Dr. Johnstone and the dental team. The clear aim is always their sensitive teeth becoming much less reactive to hot and cold, making eating enjoyable again, which directly helps patients get back to enjoying showing off their beautifully whitened teeth at a special occasion like a wedding or reunion and their daily routines without dental hindrance.

Your specialized treatment plan, developed in consultation with Dr. Johnstone, will be meticulously designed to address your unique concerns and help you reach your specific objectives within their area of expertise. Dr. Johnstone is committed to providing the highest standard of specialized care, tailored to your individual needs.

Johnstone Periodontics is situated in the Moore Park, Summerhill East neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Kensington Market and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Convenient patient parking is typically available near the clinic.

How often should I (or my child) visit Dr. Johnstone for a check-up and cleaning?

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Johnstone will recommend a personalized schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and any existing conditions. For example, some patients managing active gum disease or at high caries risk may need visits every 3-4 months, while others with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals. It is crucial to follow Dr. Johnstone's specific recommendations for your optimal oral health.

Do I need a referral from my general dentist to see a dental specialist (e.g., Orthodontist, Periodontist)?

While some dental specialists may accept patients directly, it is often recommended, and sometimes required by the specialist or insurance plans, to have a referral from your general dentist. A referral ensures the specialist has relevant background information and that the visit is appropriate. If Dr. Johnstone identifies a need for specialist care, they will provide a referral to ensure coordinated care. If you are unsure, it's best to check with the specific specialist's office or your insurance provider.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Johnstone at Johnstone Periodontics?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Johnstone and the team at Johnstone Periodontics will focus on getting to know you and your oral health. Expect to fill out a medical history form, have a discussion about any dental issues or goals you have, followed by a detailed examination of your mouth. Digital X-rays may be taken to get a complete picture. Based on this, Dr. Johnstone will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

In Ontario, provincial health plans like OHIP typically do NOT cover most routine or major dental procedures performed in private dental clinics for the general population. Some specific, limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket by patients or through private dental insurance plans (often through employers) or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). Always verify any potential public coverage you might be eligible for and check your private dental insurance details before starting treatment.

Are dental X-rays safe, and how often are they needed?

Dental X-rays are very safe, especially modern digital X-rays which use minimal radiation. Protective lead aprons are used. X-rays are taken only when diagnostically necessary (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments). Dr. Johnstone will determine the frequency based on your individual oral health, risk factors, and dental history, adhering to guidelines like ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).

What should I do if I have a dental emergency outside of Johnstone Periodontics's regular office hours?

If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency (e.g., severe uncontrolled bleeding, difficulty breathing due to facial swelling, significant facial trauma), please go to the nearest hospital emergency department or call 911 immediately. For urgent dental issues that are not life-threatening but require prompt attention outside of Johnstone Periodontics’s hours (such as severe toothache, a knocked-out tooth, a dental abscess with moderate swelling, or a broken tooth causing sharp pain), please call our main office number at (647) 348-4867. Our voicemail message may provide instructions for emergency contact with Dr. Johnstone or another on-call dentist, or direct you to an emergency dental service available in the Toronto area.

Do I need a referral to see a general dentist like Dr. Johnstone?

No, you generally do not need a referral from a physician or another healthcare provider to see a general dentist like Dr. Johnstone for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can usually book an appointment directly with Johnstone Periodontics.

Can persistent bad breath or bleeding gums be a sign I need to see a Periodontist like Dr. Johnstone?

Yes, persistent bad breath (halitosis) or bleeding gums can be signs of gum disease (periodontitis). While a general dentist often provides initial treatment, a Periodontist like Dr. Johnstone specializes in diagnosing and treating more advanced or complex cases of gum disease, including surgical and non-surgical therapies to control infection and restore gum health. A referral from a general dentist is common.

Johnstone Periodontics
21 St Clair Ave E #300
Toronto, ON, M4T 1L9

Phone: (647) 348-4867

Dr. Andrea Margaret Johnstone is a licensed Periodontist in ON, regulated by The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 & Dentistry Act, 1991 (Ontario).

License Number: 55703

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=55703

Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are essential for maintaining overall health. Dr. Johnstone and the team are committed to providing you with comprehensive dental care. If you have a dental emergency, please contact the clinic promptly. For after-hours emergencies that are life-threatening, proceed to the nearest hospital emergency department.