Periodontics
Core concepts
Know the anatomy of the periodontium, the aetiology of periodontal disease (plaque biofilm, calculus, risk factors such as smoking and diabetes), and the classification of periodontal and peri-implant diseases. Understand clinical parameters: probing depth, clinical attachment level, bleeding on probing, mobility, furcation involvement, and radiographic bone loss.
Management
Master non-surgical periodontal therapy (oral hygiene instruction, scaling and root planing), re-evaluation, and when surgical therapy is indicated. Know the principles of periodontal surgery, including flap design, regenerative techniques, and mucogingival surgery. Understand maintenance therapy and the importance of risk-factor control.
Traps
Questions test the difference between gingivitis (reversible, no attachment loss) and periodontitis (attachment loss). Another trap is relying on probing depth alone - clinical attachment level is needed to distinguish true attachment loss from gingival enlargement. Smoking and diabetes are commonly tested modifiers. Do not confuse peri-implant mucositis with peri-implantitis, which involves bone loss.
Rule of thumb
Re-evaluate after non-surgical therapy before deciding on surgery; if bleeding on probing and deep pockets persist, consider further treatment.
Worked example
A patient with 6 mm pockets, bleeding on probing, and 4 mm attachment loss: this indicates periodontitis, so start with oral hygiene instruction and scaling and root planing, then re-evaluate.