What is the primary role of periodontics in dental health?

The primary role of periodontics is indeed focused on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal diseases. This specialty emphasizes maintaining and restoring the health of the supporting structures around teeth, which include the gums, bone, and connective tissues. Periodontal diseases, such as gingivitis and periodontitis, can lead to tooth loss if not properly managed. By preventing these diseases through regular cleanings and educating patients on good oral hygiene practices, periodontics plays a crucial role in preserving overall dental health.

While whitening teeth and enhancing aesthetics, performing orthodontic corrections, and extracting non-restorable teeth are all important aspects of dentistry, they fall under different specialties. Aesthetic improvements are typically managed by cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics focuses on teeth alignment, and surgical extractions are part of oral and maxillofacial surgery or general dentistry. Hence, these roles do not encompass the core mission of periodontics, which is specifically dedicated to the health of the periodontium.