As a Periodontist with the Department of National Defence, you will provide specialized dental care focused on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases affecting the tissues supporting the teeth, including the gums, bone, and ligaments. You will diagnose periodontal conditions, develop and implement treatment plans, perform surgical and non-surgical periodontal procedures, and manage complex cases involving tooth loss and implant placement. Your work will directly contribute to maintaining the oral health and overall well-being of Canadian Armed Forces members, Veterans, and their families.
Your responsibilities will include conducting clinical examinations and assessments, prescribing appropriate treatments ranging from scaling and root planing to periodontal surgery, placing and maintaining dental implants, and educating patients on oral hygiene and disease prevention. You will work as part of a multidisciplinary dental team, collaborating with general dentists, dental hygienists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive patient care. Your expertise will also be valuable in training and mentoring junior dental staff and contributing to clinical best practices within the organization.
You will work in modern dental facilities at military bases and Veterans' health centres across Canada, in a professional healthcare environment. The role offers opportunities to work with diverse populations, engage in continuing education, and contribute to advancing periodontal care standards within the Canadian Armed Forces and the federal government.
Key Responsibilities
Provide dentistry services to clients and patients, Assess needs and develop treatment or service plans, Maintain accurate clinical and case records, Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver care
Required Skills
Clinical skills, Patient/client assessment, Empathy and communication, Record-keeping, Interdisciplinary collaboration, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To qualify as a Periodontist with DND, you must hold a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from an accredited dental school, followed by completion of a specialty residency program in Periodontics (minimum 3 years). You must be licensed to practice dentistry in Canada and hold or be eligible to obtain a specialty license in Periodontics from the relevant provincial dental regulatory body. Registration with the National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB) or equivalent is required.
Professional development opportunities include access to continuing education programs, participation in clinical conferences and seminars, membership in professional associations such as the Canadian Academy of Periodontology, and opportunities to pursue advanced certifications in implant dentistry or other specialized areas. DND supports professional development to ensure staff remain current with evolving periodontal techniques, technologies, and evidence-based practices. You may also have opportunities to contribute to research initiatives or clinical education within the organization.
Entry Plans
Entry into the Periodontist position with DND typically occurs through advertised competitions posted on the Government of Canada Jobs website. Candidates with the required qualifications—including dental degree, specialty training, and valid licensure—are invited to apply. The selection process usually includes submission of credentials, professional references, and may involve technical interviews or assessments to evaluate clinical knowledge and fit with DND's healthcare mission.
Lateral moves from other federal or provincial health authorities are also possible for qualified periodontists seeking to transition into the public service. DND may occasionally participate in staffing pools or conduct recruitment drives to fill multiple positions. Early-career dentists with completed specialty training are encouraged to monitor the Jobs website regularly, as competition timelines and availability vary based on organizational needs and funding. Networking with DND dental services and staying informed about emerging opportunities through professional dental associations can also provide valuable pathways into the organization.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements may be available for Periodontists at DND, though availability depends on operational requirements and the specific location. Full-time positions are standard, as clinical dentistry typically requires consistent patient scheduling and continuity of care. However, DND recognizes the value of work-life balance and may offer flexible scheduling options in some settings, such as compressed work weeks or adjusted start and end times, subject to patient care demands and supervisory approval.
Remote work is not applicable to the Periodontist role, as the position requires in-person clinical practice and direct patient interaction. However, administrative or educational components of the role—such as case review, treatment planning consultations, or mentoring activities—may occasionally be conducted virtually. Individuals interested in flexible arrangements are encouraged to discuss options during the recruitment and onboarding process, as accommodation possibilities are assessed on a case-by-case basis within the constraints of military and healthcare operational needs.
