Periodontics is the specialty of treating the gums and bone in the mouth. To put it simply, periodontal therapy treats gum disease. Gum disease occurs when the plaque or bacteria in your mouth accumulates over time to an unhealthy state. The body forms an inflammatory response which tries to remove the bacteria. However, in the process, the inflammatory response ends up harming the gum
tissue and the bone surrounding the teeth. Left untreated, there will be further harm to the bone leading to lose teeth or severe infections. Early treatment for periodontitis or gum disease is called scaling and root planning. This is similar to a preventive cleaning (prophylaxis), but is slightly more involved as the bacteria has to be removed from
the surface of the tooth that is below the level of the gums. In more severe cases, periodontal surgery may be
required.