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The field of dentistry has become more diverse and specialized in the last half century. There are, today, eight recognized streams of dentistry with post graduate specialization, and at least two or three knocking on the doors for such a status. A PERIODONTIST is a dental specialist who looks after your gums and other supporting structures of the teeth. Teeth are embedded in a bony socket in the upper and lower jaw bones, known as the maxilla and mandible respectively. The roots of the teeth, which are embedded in the bone, are coated with a substance known as the cementum. This cementum unites the teeth to the bone with the help of a shock absorbing ligament known as the periodontal ligament. The cementum, the periodontal ligament, the bone housing the teeth and the gums covering the teeth are collectively known as the periodontal complex. A PERIODONTIST looks after, and treats diseases affecting these structures. A disease of these structures is known as periodontal disease, and it can affect individuals in varying forms. It is a very slowly progressive disease and is caused by colonization of bacteria in, and around the junction of the gums and teeth. This accumulation of bacteria and its byproducts is known as PLAQUE. When this plaque accumulates beyond a certain critical level, it starts causing destruction of the peridontal structures. If left unhindered, the disease progresses and the tooth starts becoming loose and will ultimately fall off. It is the job of the periodontist to prevent such problems, and treat them if the disease is already established. A large component of this disease is preventable if proper precautions are taken and good oral hygiene is maintained. It is important to note that the more the amount of PLAQUE in an individual's mouth, the more the extent of the disease. The severity of the disease for each individual is variable and hence, it is very difficult to quantify the critical level of plaque which will cause disease. It is best to keep the mouth as clean as possible. It is very advisable to visit your family dentist at least once year for a check up and, if necessary, get a scaling (professional cleaning of your teeth), done. If your dentist notices that you have an advanced level of gum disease (as it is colloquially known), it may be necessary for you to seek the services of a Periodontist.
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