South Carolina Life and Health Practice Exam

Which dental specialty is concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the supporting structures of the teeth?

1. Endodontics

2. Prosthodontics

3. Periodontics

4. Orthodontics

The correct answer is: Periodontics

The correct answer is periodontics. This dental specialty focuses specifically on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases that affect the supporting structures of the teeth, which include the gums, bones, and other tissues. Periodontists are trained to manage conditions such as gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis) and are skilled in various treatments that help maintain the health of the periodontium, the tissues that support and surround the teeth. In contrast, endodontics is the specialty that deals primarily with the pulp and root of the tooth, often performing root canal treatments. Prosthodontics focuses on restoring and replacing missing teeth with various prosthetic solutions like crowns, bridges, and dentures. Orthodontics is concerned with the diagnosis, prevention, and correction of malocclusions or misalignment of teeth and jaws, primarily through braces and aligners. Each of these specialties has its distinct focus, but periodontics is the one that directly addresses the health and treatment of the supporting tooth structures.