Periodontics is the care and treatment of the supporting structures of the teeth, the gums (gingiva) , the jaw (alveolar bone), the root, and what is called the periodontal ligament . The word periodontic comes from two Greek words, peri meaning around, and odons meaning tooth.

A periodontist, therefore, is a dentist who specializes in treating diseases of the periodontium; i.e. the entire area surrounding the tooth .

A periodontist, aside from being a specialist who treats diseases of the gums and tooth supporting structures, has a widely expanded role in modern dentistry. The two areas where periodontics has become integral in modern dentistry is in dental cosmetics and implant dentistry.

Due to a periodontist’s unique knowledge of tissue structure, soft tissue management, and the anatomy of the oral structures including bony topography, periodontists are excellent choices for dental implant surgeons.

In dental cosmetics, periodontists have the ability to improve soft tissue symmetry, color, tone, and the quality of tissue available through a myriad of techniques.

The dental staff, of Smilebuilderz in Lancaster, is proud to have a leading periodontist on staff, not simply to treat various periodontal diseases, usually involving bacterial infection of the gums, but also to evaluate and treat patients seeking cosmetic gum contouring or the minor surgery involved in the critical specialty of providing dental implants.

The relationship of periodontics to both dental implant surgery and significant areas of cosmetic dentistry, is another reason that the Smilebuilderz idea of having all these dental specialties under one roof makes so much sense. Bringing this wholistic idea to Lancaster, PA is what Smilebuilderz is all about!

For a much more detailed description of periodontal disease (gingivitis and periodontitis) and its causes click on this link at the American Academy of Peridontology. This page will open in a separate window. To return to this site simply close out that window.