What dental specialty focuses on the diseases of the supporting and surrounding tissues of the tooth?

The specialty that focuses on the diseases of the supporting and surrounding tissues of the tooth is indeed periodontics. This field primarily deals with the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of periodontal diseases, which affect the gums and supportive structures of the teeth, including the bone. Periodontists are trained to manage conditions such as gingivitis and periodontitis, aiming to preserve the health of the gums and the supporting structures.

Other specialties, while also important in dentistry, focus on different areas. Orthodontics concentrates on the alignment of teeth and jaws, endodontics specializes in treatments related to the dental pulp and root of the tooth, particularly in addressing issues such as infections or trauma, and prosthodontics is concerned with restoring and replacing teeth through various dental prostheses. Thus, periodontics is uniquely positioned to tackle issues that directly impact the health of the gums and the supporting tissue, making it the correct choice in this context.