Dr. Catherine Gagnon – Dentist | Kanata, ON

Dr. Catherine Gagnon is a Periodontist. Practicing at Ottawa West Periodontics in Kanata, ON, Dr. Gagnon is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused dental care. Dr. Gagnon 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. Gagnon 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. Gagnon 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 Ottawa West Periodontics.

Dr. Catherine Gagnon earned a Dental Degree from Universite Laval, graduating in 2016. This was followed by specialized training in advanced specialty training in Periodontist at the Eastman Institute for Oral Health in 2022. Dr. Gagnon brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. Additionally, this specialist holds certifications/authorizations for: Minimal Oral. Dr. Gagnon is dedicated to ongoing continuing education to provide up-to-date dental care.

Key aspects of Dr. Gagnon's dental practice philosophy include: tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual patient; believing in conservative dentistry, aiming to preserve natural tooth structure whenever possible. Dr. Gagnon provides consultations in English.

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

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Concerns about Oral Hygiene Practices: Seeking advice on how to improve brushing, flossing, or overall oral hygiene techniques.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Wanting to understand which dental products are best for their specific oral health needs or conditions.
• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Proactive engagement in preventative dentistry to avoid future dental issues.

Periodontal Gum Disease Advanced

• Aggressive Forms of Periodontitis: Specialized care for aggressive types of periodontal infection that can lead to rapid tooth loss if not managed appropriately.
• Moderate to Severe Periodontitis (Gum Disease with Bone Loss): Advanced gum disease characterized by significant inflammation, deep periodontal pockets (spaces between teeth and gums), considerable loss of the bone supporting the teeth, gum recession, and potentially loose or shifting teeth, requiring specialist periodontal treatment to control the infection and prevent tooth loss.

Complex Dental Diagnosis Needs

• Need for Detailed 3D Imaging for Diagnosis or Treatment Planning (CBCT): Complex dental cases that significantly benefit from the superior diagnostic information and precise measurements provided by CBCT scans for optimal treatment outcomes.

This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Gagnon. 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: Thorough examination of the supporting structures of the teeth to identify and manage gum-related problems.
• Digital X-rays & Radiography (Intraoral & Extraoral): Utilizing advanced digital X-ray technology (e.g., bitewings, periapicals, panoramic X-rays) for safe and precise diagnosis of dental conditions.
• Gum Grafting Surgery (Connective Tissue Grafts, Free Gingival Grafts): Specialized techniques to augment thin or receding gum tissue, enhancing periodontal health and smile appearance.
• Periodontal Maintenance Therapy (Supportive Periodontal Care): Crucial follow-up care to manage periodontitis as a chronic condition and prevent further attachment loss.
• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: Complete dental check-ups to assess your current oral health status, identify any existing issues, and develop a personalized treatment plan.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Gagnon. 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. Catherine Gagnon 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. Gagnon is dedicated to helping patients achieve significant improvements related to their specific and often complex oral health needs. At Ottawa West Periodontics, the focus is on partnering with you towards outcomes such as:

• Understanding the frustration the area around one of their existing dental implants feeling persistently sore, inflamed, or showing signs of bleeding can cause, Dr. Gagnon tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve their child stopping their thumb-sucking habit with supportive guidance, protecting their dental development, allowing for renewed participation in activities like replacing missing teeth and feeling whole again, with a complete and functional smile.
• For patients where a tooth that suddenly felt rough, had a sharp or jagged edge, or was causing irritation is a primary concern, Dr. Gagnon focuses on creating personalized treatment plans that culminate in their child's newly erupted molars being protected from decay with dental sealants. This directly supports and enhances their ability to fully showing off a brighter, more youthful smile after cosmetic treatments.
• When a noticeable gap between their front teeth that they had always wished to close starts to interfere with daily life, such as affecting their ability to their family members also benefiting from improved oral health knowledge shared from the patient's visits, Dr. Gagnon and the team work collaboratively with patients. Success is marked by their new partial or full denture feeling exceptionally stable, comfortable, and looking completely natural and a return to comfort and confidence.
• If a desire for professional advice on how to effectively stop their child's cavities from getting worse or prevent new ones from forming is preventing you from fully enjoying their children being able to enjoy treats in moderation without an excessive fear of immediate cavities due to good preventative care or causing discomfort, Dr. Gagnon offers expert dental solutions. The primary aim is to achieve achieving their desired level of teeth whiteness safely and effectively under professional supervision through comprehensive and personalized dental care.

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

Ottawa West Periodontics, where Dr. Gagnon practices, is situated in a central location within the Kanata neighborhood of Kanata. The clinic is conveniently located near local shops and community amenities and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

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

For most patients, preventative check-ups and cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months. However, Dr. Gagnon 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 may need visits every 3-4 months if managing active gum disease or at high caries risk, while others with excellent long-term oral health might have slightly longer intervals. It is crucial to follow Dr. Gagnon's specific recommendations for your optimal oral health.

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

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

What are dental implants, and how do I know if I'm a suitable candidate?

Dental implants are small, medical-grade titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots. They provide a strong and stable foundation for fixed (crowns, bridges) or removable replacement teeth (dentures). Good candidates generally have healthy gums, adequate jawbone density to support the implant, and are in good overall health. Dr. Gagnon can perform a comprehensive assessment, which may include X-rays or 3D CBCT imaging, to determine your suitability for dental implants. Dr. Gagnon offers implant consultations and services.

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

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

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 always used. X-rays are taken only when diagnostically necessary, such as for new patients, to check for decay between teeth, assess bone health, or plan complex treatments. Dr. Gagnon 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).

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's 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. Gagnon identifies a need for specialist care, they will provide a referral to ensure coordinated care. It's best to check with the specific specialist's office or your insurance provider if you are unsure.

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. 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 provided by employers), or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). Always verify your eligibility for any potential public coverage and check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Gagnon at Ottawa West Periodontics?

Your first visit will involve a comprehensive dental examination, including a review of your medical and dental history, a thorough check of your teeth, gums, jaw, and soft tissues (including an oral cancer screening), and any necessary X-rays. Dr. Gagnon will discuss their findings, address your concerns, and create a personalized treatment plan if needed. A professional cleaning will often be performed during this visit or scheduled for a subsequent appointment.

Ottawa West Periodontics
3280 Palladium Dr #3
Kanata, ON, K2T 0N9

Phone: (613) 592-1222

Dr. Catherine Gagnon 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: 502434

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=502434

Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are essential for maintaining overall health. Dr. Gagnon 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.