Periodontics and Gum Disease Flashcards

In the 2017 classification system, Grade C periodontitis (rapid progression) is indicated by evidence of:

Answer: Bone loss exceeding 2% per year or heavy biofilm inconsistent with the destruction observed

Grade C uses primary criteria such as bone loss >2% per year or the presence of heavy risk factors (smoking ≥10 cigs/day, HbA1c ≥7%) and secondary criteria of destruction inconsistent with biofilm levels.

Which of the following best describes the rationale for placing a resorbable membrane versus a non-resorbable membrane in GTR?

Answer: Non-resorbable membranes require a second surgery for removal but may offer superior space maintenance

Non-resorbable membranes (e.g., expanded PTFE) require removal at a second surgery but can provide more predictable space maintenance; resorbable membranes eliminate the second surgery at the cost of variable resorption rates.

Necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (NUG) is distinguished from other forms of gingivitis by the presence of:

Answer: Interproximal necrosis, pseudomembrane, and fetid odor without attachment loss

NUG presents with punched-out interdental papillae covered by a gray pseudomembrane, spontaneous bleeding, fetid odor, and pain but no attachment loss (unlike necrotizing periodontitis).

Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) enhances periodontal wound healing primarily by:

Answer: Releasing autologous growth factors (PDGF, VEGF, TGF-β) that stimulate cell proliferation and angiogenesis

PRF is an autologous fibrin matrix rich in platelets and leukocytes that releases growth factors promoting angiogenesis, cell migration, and tissue regeneration at the wound site.

Which of the following best describes a one-wall intrabony defect?

Answer: Only one remaining bony wall exists adjacent to the defect

A one-wall defect has only one remaining bone wall (plus the root surface), making it the least favorable for regeneration because of the limited bony envelope.

The primary goal of occlusal adjustment in periodontal therapy is to:

Answer: Reduce traumatic occlusal forces that may accelerate bone loss in periodontally compromised teeth

Occlusal adjustment in periodontics aims to eliminate excessive forces (primary or secondary occlusal trauma) on teeth with reduced periodontium to slow disease progression.

Which index measures the percentage of tooth surfaces with plaque present, scored on a per-surface basis without distinguishing plaque thickness?

Answer: O'Leary Plaque Control Record

The O'Leary Plaque Control Record scores four surfaces of each tooth as plaque-present or absent and calculates the percentage of surfaces with plaque, making it ideal for patient motivation and home care assessment.