A Periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the diagnosis and surgical and non-surgical treatment of diseases and conditions of the periodontium, the bone and tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. Periodontists are experts in the management of patients with periodontal diseases including all forms of gingivitis, periodontitis and gingival recession (gum recession).
Periodontics is one of the nine American Dental Association recognized specialties of dentistry. Periodontists complete 3 years of additional formal training beyond dental school in an accredited residency training program.
The American Academy of Periodontology is the recognized governing academy for periodontics in the USA.