Periodontics is essentially a discipline of dentistry that deals with the treatment of the oral structures that surround and support the teeth. The jawbone, gums, and surrounding oral tissue can all be affected by the continuous plaque accumulation that causes gingivitis and gum disease. If not treated, this chronic infection may lead to loss of bone and connective tissue around the teeth, resulting in tooth extraction or dental implants. The goal of periodontal therapy is to prevent further damage to the gums and bones that support the teeth by treating any present inflammation processes and promoting healthy gum tissues. This is done by performing preventive measures such as scaling and root planning (SRP) on all patients at their first visit to the dentist. During SRP, the dentist removes bacterial deposits from the surfaces of the teeth and any tartar (calcium phosphate) buildup using an ultrasonic scaler and polishes the teeth to remove any residual calculus (dead skin cells). After cleaning, the dentist will apply either fluoride or antibiotic medications to the teeth to help prevent future infections. Then, patient will be instructed on how to maintain proper oral hygiene so that these treatments can be repeated periodically. In addition to preventing gum diseases, there are several other reasons why it is important for everyone to have a regular dental check-up.