Final answer:
Periodontology is the dental specialty addressing diseases of the tissue surrounding and supporting teeth, collectively known as periodontal disease. Proper oral hygiene can prevent its progression, and treatment ranges from cleaning to surgery depending on the severity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The specialty concerned with diagnosing and treating the diseases of the supporting and surrounding tissues of the tooth is called periodontology. Periodontal disease encompasses infections of these tissues, including the gums, periodontal ligament, alveolar bone, and cementum which all play critical roles in maintaining the structural integrity of a tooth. Proper dental hygiene is essential to prevent the progression of periodontal disease, which can lead to inflammation, tissue damage, and eventually tooth loss if not adequately managed.
The anatomy of a tooth consists of the crown and root, where the crown is the visible outer surface covered by enamel, and the root is embedded within the jawbone, anchored by the periodontal ligament and cementum. When the health of these tissues is compromised by microbes such as cariogenic bacteria, it can result in caries and other forms of periodontal disease. Treatment options vary based on severity but may include professional cleaning, scaling, and in severe cases, surgical intervention.