Final answer:
A licensed doctor with a DDS or DMD degree who treats mouth, teeth, and gum conditions is a Dentist (C). Dental assistants, dental hygienists, and periodontists have specific roles, with periodontists focusing on gum diseases like periodontal disease.
Step-by-step explanation:
A licensed doctor with a DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) or DMD (Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry or Doctor of Dental Medicine) degree who treats conditions related to the teeth, gums, and mouth is a: C) Dentist.
Dental assistants and dental hygienists support the work of a dentist by performing more routine tasks and office duties or dental hygiene work respectively. A periodontist is a type of dentist who specializes in treating diseases of the gums and bone supporting the teeth, such as periodontal disease, which involves infections that lead to inflammation and tissue damage around the teeth. Prevention and treatment of periodontal disease can include good oral hygiene, dental cleanings, and sometimes antibiotics in severe cases.