Periodontics is a dental specialty concerned with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of gum diseases. Dentists who specialize in periodontics are referred to as periodontists. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, there are 52 institutions in the United States that offer periodontics training programs. Periodontics is one of nine dental specialties that are recognized by the American Dental Association, or ADA.
Gum Disease
Dental periodontics is primarily concerned with treating and preventing serious gum infections such as periodontitis, a bacterial infection that is caused by plaque. If left untreated, periodontitis can lead to severe pain and possible loss of teeth. To treat gum infections, periodontists use techniques such as gum surgery, laser treatments or cleaning of the roots. If teeth have already been lost due to gum diseases, periodontists permanently replace teeth using dental implants or cosmetic procedures.
Prevention
Periodontics is also concerned with the prevention of gum diseases. Periodontists educate patients on maintain healthy teeth and gums and emphasize the importance of caring for the gum line. They also educate patients on the warning signs of gum disease, such as red and swollen gums, chronic bad breath and sores in the mouth.
Dental Implants
In addition to treating and preventing gum diseases, periodontics is also concerned with the long-term maintenance of dental implants, a treatment option for people who have lost teeth due to gum diseases.
Cosmetics
Periodontists help people with cosmetic concerns, such as a smile that reveals too much gum tissue or teeth that appear too short. They sculpt the gum line or remove excess gum tissue to expose more of the teeth. They also help people with missing teeth or indentations in the gum line.
Considerations
To practice periodontics, an individual must graduate from an accredited four-year college and an accredited dental school and obtain either a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DDM) or a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree. They must complete an additional three years of training in a periodontology training program. In addition to treating patients, periodontists often conduct research or teach at dental schools.
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