Periodontology or periodontics (from Greek περί peri "around"; and ὀδούς odous "tooth", genitive ὀδόντος odontos) is the specialty of dentistry that studies supporting structures of teeth, as well as diseases and conditions that affect them. The supporting tissues are known as the periodontium, which includes the gingiva (gums), alveolar bone, cementum, and the periodontal ligament. A professional who practices this specialty field of dentistry is known as a periodontist. Periodontology is an emerging specialty in the field of dentistry which deals with the diseases of the tooth supporting structures. In the clinical sessions the students are equipped with the skills to carry out various treatment modalities to manage the patients suffering from periodontal diseases.