periodontics n : the branch of dentistry dealing with diseases of the gums and other structures around the teeth [syn: periodontia]

English

Noun

1. The branch of dentistry that deals with the care and treatment of the gums

Periodontology, or Periodontics, is the branch of dentistry which studies supporting structures of teeth, and diseases and conditions that affect them.

The supporting tissues are known as the periodontium, which includes the gingiva (gums), alveolar bone, cementum, and the periodontal ligament. The word comes from the Greek words peri meaning around and odons meaning tooth. Literally taken, it means study of that which is "around the tooth".

Periodontal disease

Periodontal diseases take on many different forms, but are usually a result of a coalescence of bacterial plaque biofilm accumulation of the gingiva and teeth, combined with host immuno-inflammatory mechanisms and other risk factors which lead to destruction of the supporting bone around natural teeth. Untreated, these diseases lead to alveolar bone loss and tooth loss, and to date continue to be the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.

Periodontists

A Periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the diagnosis and surgical and non-surgical treatment of diseases and conditions of the periodontium. Periodontists are experts in the management of patients with periodontal diseases including gingivitis, periodontitis and gingival recession (gum recession).

United States

Periodontics is one of the nine American Dental Association recognized specialties of dentistry. Periodontists complete 3 years of additional formal training beyond dental school in an accredited residency training program.

The American Academy of Periodontology is the recognized governing academy for periodontics in the USA.

Periodontists may also earn Board Certification by the American Board of Periodontology' after completion of an American Dental Association accredited residency training program in Periodontics. Board certified periodontists are awarded the title "Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology".

India ( Bharath )

Periodontics is offered as specialisation field in dentistry programme in India.This is offered at Master of Dental Surgery ( M.D.S ) course conducted by dental colleges affilated to different universities in India.The minimum qualification required for M.D.S is Bachelor of Dental Surgery ( B.D.S ). Dental council of India is regulating body for dentists in India.

See also

• Periodontitis
• Gum recession
• Gum graft

External links

• American Academy of Periodontology's (AAP) article on Periodontal Disease
• The National Institute of Cranialfacial Research's article on Periodontal Disease
• AAP Directory of Periodontists
• Canadian Academy directory of Periodontists
• Dental Council of India