The spelling of the word "periodontist" is a combination of Greek and Latin roots. The word is pronounced /ˌpɪəriəˈdɒntɪst/ in IPA phonetic transcription. "Peri-" means around, while "odont-" means tooth, and "-ist" means a practitioner or specialist in a specific field. Therefore, a periodontist is a dental specialist who diagnoses, treats, and prevents diseases that affect the structures surrounding the teeth, such as the gums, bone, and connective tissues. Proper dental hygiene and regular visits to a periodontist can ensure healthy gums and teeth.
A periodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases that affect the supporting structures of the teeth, including the gums and the surrounding bone. This dental professional undergoes additional education and training beyond general dentistry to gain expertise in the field of periodontics.
One primary role of a periodontist is to address periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease. This condition occurs when bacterial plaque builds up on the teeth and gums, leading to inflammation and potential damage to the periodontal tissues. Periodontists employ various techniques, such as scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), to remove plaque and calculus, as well as surgical interventions when necessary to treat and manage gum disease. Moreover, they may perform procedures like gum grafting, pocket reduction surgery, and dental implant placement to restore and enhance the health and aesthetics of a patient's smile.
In addition to treating periodontal disease, periodontists are also skilled in managing other conditions related to the gums and supporting structures, such as gum recession, gum abscesses, and mucogingival defects. They often work closely with general dentists and other dental specialists to provide comprehensive oral care to patients. Furthermore, periodontists play a crucial role in educating and instructing patients on proper oral hygiene practices to maintain healthy gums and prevent future periodontal problems.
A dentist who specializes in periodontia.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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The word "periodontist" comes from the combination of two Greek terms: "peri", meaning around, and "odontos", meaning tooth. "Periodontist" is derived from the word "periodontology", which refers to the branch of dentistry that focuses on the structures surrounding and supporting the teeth, such as the gums, bones, and ligaments. Thus, a periodontist is a dental specialist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases and conditions affecting the periodontium (the supporting structures of the teeth).