Which dental specialty is responsible for treating the supporting structures of teeth?

The specialty focused on treating the supporting structures of teeth, including the gums and the underlying bone, is periodontics. This field of dentistry addresses conditions such as gum disease, gingivitis, and periodontitis, as well as the management and maintenance of the health of the periodontal tissues. Not only do periodontists diagnose and treat these conditions, but they also perform procedures such as scaling and root planing, as well as placing dental implants when needed.

The other specialties mentioned concentrate on different aspects of dental care: endodontists primarily deal with the dental pulp and root canal treatment, orthodontists focus on the alignment of teeth and jaws, and prosthodontists specialize in the restoration and replacement of teeth using prosthetics like crowns, bridges, and dentures. While each plays a crucial role in oral health, it is the periodontist who specifically manages the health of the supporting structures surrounding the teeth.