Dental knowledge: periodontal assessment
The periodontal assessment is the basis of the dental diagnosis and the recommended therapy.
First comes a thorough examination to record the findings and take a history. Alongside the acute symptoms, existing and previous conditions (diabetes or high blood pressure, for example), medication and habits are asked about. Where periodontal disease is present, patients are often asked whether family members have had periodontitis too.
If periodontitis occurs despite conscientious oral hygiene, a genetic test can examine whether there is a family predisposition. The genetic information of the bacteria responsible for triggering periodontitis is analysed. Genetically predisposed patients face a much higher risk of developing periodontitis.
Clinical and radiographic findings are recorded; among other things the pocket depths are measured and the findings documented on X-ray. The stage of the periodontitis determines the form of treatment and therapy, in which a great many aspects of dentistry have to be taken into account. Classic periodontal treatment only slows the course of the disease or halts it. Lost tissue is recovered only to a limited extent.
On the basis of the history taken, the dentist makes a diagnosis describing the condition and its symptoms. The diagnosis then allows the dentist to draw up a treatment plan setting out all the further steps. Before treatment begins the dentist records the periodontal status. This is entered on a two-page form and gives an overview of the condition.
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