Periodontics
Core Concepts
Periodontics involves the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases affecting the periodontium. Candidates must understand periodontal anatomy, etiology (plaque biofilm), risk factors (smoking, diabetes), classification of periodontal diseases (e.g., 2017 World Workshop), and treatment phases (initial therapy, surgical therapy, maintenance). Key concepts include probing depths, clinical attachment level, bleeding on probing, and radiographic bone loss assessment.
Common Traps
Questions often test the difference between gingivitis and periodontitis: gingivitis is reversible and limited to gingiva; periodontitis involves attachment loss and bone loss. Another trap is the interpretation of probing depths: a deep pocket may be due to gingival enlargement rather than attachment loss. Also, be clear on the role of systemic factors and the importance of smoking cessation.
Worked Example / Rule of Thumb
A patient with diabetes and poor oral hygiene presents with generalized bleeding and 5-6 mm probing depths. Diagnosis: periodontitis. Treatment: initial therapy including scaling and root planing, oral hygiene instruction, and glycemic control. Rule of thumb: always assess risk factors and consider referral for systemic evaluation if undiagnosed.