It refers to the diagnosis and management of periodontal (gum) diseases.

The most common periodontal diseases include gingivitis, periodontitis, gingival recession, periodontal pocket, pigmentation, periodontal abscess, and gingival enlargement.

Most of these diseases present themselves with bleeding gums, reddish appearance, malodour, and food lodgment.

They can be treated by curettage, root planing, soft tissue grafts, the removal of excess gum tissue, depigmentation, and the use of dental lasers.