Periodontics is the study of periodontal disease (also known as gum disease), its effects and treatment. The word comes from the Latin word peri meaning around and the Greek word odous meaning tooth. Literally taken, it means study of that which is "around the tooth".

Periodontal disease is a chronic, bacterial infection of the gums. Untreated, it leads to tooth loss and jaw bone loss.

Also see: periodontology , periodontitis

External links

• American Academy of Periodontology's (AAP) article on Periodontal Disease http://www.perio.org/consumer/2a.html
• The National Institute of Cranialfacial Research's article on Periodontal Disease http://www.nidr.nih.gov/health/newsandhealth/gumDiseasesPub.asp
• AAP Directory of Periodontists http://www.perio.org/consumer/1a.html