CPT Supportive Periodontal Therapy & Maintenance

Question 1

What is the recommended recall interval for most patients in supportive periodontal therapy (SPT)?

Accepted Answer

Every 3 months

Answer

Three-month intervals are standard for most SPT patients because periodontal pathogens recolonize subgingival sites within approximately 9–12 weeks after debridement.

Question 2

Which factor has the GREATEST influence on preventing recurrence of periodontitis during SPT?

Accepted Answer

Patient compliance with recall appointments

Answer

Patient compliance with regular SPT visits is the single most important determinant of long-term periodontal stability and prevention of disease recurrence.

Question 3

During an SPT appointment, which assessment is typically performed FIRST?

Accepted Answer

Medical and dental history update

Answer

Updating the medical and dental history is performed first to identify any systemic or medication changes that may affect treatment planning.

Question 4

In SPT, 'disease reactivation' is defined as:

Accepted Answer

Increased probing depths, attachment loss, or bone loss compared to post-treatment baseline

Answer

Disease reactivation refers to objective clinical evidence of ongoing periodontal destruction, including increased probing depth, attachment loss, or radiographic bone loss.

Question 5

Which index is most commonly used to assess plaque control during SPT visits?

Accepted Answer

O'Leary Plaque Control Record

Answer

The O'Leary Plaque Control Record quantifies plaque presence as a percentage of surfaces, making it useful for patient motivation and tracking improvement during SPT.

CPT - Certified Periodontal Therapist Practice Test

CPT - Certified Periodontal Therapist Practice Test

CPT Supportive Periodontal Therapy & Maintenance