Final answer:
A periodontist is the dental specialist who treats patients with bone loss around the teeth due to periodontal disease. They use various treatments, including non-surgical and surgical procedures, to manage and heal the damaged structures surrounding the teeth.
Step-by-step explanation:
The dental specialist who treats patients who have lost bone around the tooth due to disease is referred to as a periodontist. Periodontists are experts in treating periodontal disease, which involves infections leading to inflammation and damage to the structures surrounding the teeth, including the alveolar bone, periodontal ligament, and gum tissue. Treatments can range from non-surgical procedures like deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) to surgical interventions aimed at regenerating lost bone and tissue.
A gomphosis is the type of joint that anchors a tooth into its bony socket. When periodontal disease progresses, it can disrupt this connection, necessitating the expertise of a periodontist. Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for preventing periodontal disease from developing or worsening. Periodontists also work with patients to manage and treat the condition, thereby preserving the teeth and their supporting structures.