What is the specialty of a Periodontist?

A periodontist specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of periodontal disease, which affects the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. They are trained to manage complex gum issues and work with dental implants, making them experts in procedures that involve the soft tissues of the mouth that support teeth. Their focus includes treating gum disease, performing scaling and root planing, as well as surgical interventions to restore the health of the gum tissue. This expertise is crucial for maintaining not just oral health, but overall health, as gum disease has been linked to other systemic conditions.

In contrast, the other options pertain to different areas of medicine or dental specialties. For example, the first option relates to gynecology, the second to orthodontics, which is focused on correcting teeth alignment, and the last to oral and maxillofacial surgery. Each specialty has a unique focus, but the periodontist's primary concern is the health of the gums and supporting structures, making the correct choice clear.