Which professional's practice is limited to the treatment of gum disease?

Which professional's practice is limited to the treatment of gum disease?

• A. Endodontist
• B. Orthodontist
• C. Periodontist
• D. Pediatric dentist

Answer: (C)

Gum disease affects the tissues that support teeth—the gums and the surrounding structures—so the professional who specializes in diagnosing and treating those tissues is the periodontist. This periodontic focus includes managing gingivitis and periodontitis, performing non-surgical deep cleanings (scaling and root planing), and conducting surgical procedures such as flap surgery, grafts, and other regenerative techniques to restore the supporting bone and tissue. Endodontists concentrate on the tooth’s inner pulp and root canal therapy; orthodontists work on aligning and correcting bites and tooth positions; pediatric dentists care for the dental needs of children. Because periodontal disease centers on the gums and supporting structures, the periodontist is the one whose practice is dedicated to treating gum disease.

Gum disease affects the tissues that support teeth—the gums and the surrounding structures—so the professional who specializes in diagnosing and treating those tissues is the periodontist. This periodontic focus includes managing gingivitis and periodontitis, performing non-surgical deep cleanings (scaling and root planing), and conducting surgical procedures such as flap surgery, grafts, and other regenerative techniques to restore the supporting bone and tissue.

Endodontists concentrate on the tooth’s inner pulp and root canal therapy; orthodontists work on aligning and correcting bites and tooth positions; pediatric dentists care for the dental needs of children. Because periodontal disease centers on the gums and supporting structures, the periodontist is the one whose practice is dedicated to treating gum disease.