[Practical significance of basic training in periodontal diagnosis and treatment: the essential pathway for the prevention and control of periodontal diseases].

Solid fundamental skills in periodontal diagnosis and treatment constitute the cornerstone of professional development and clinical competence for every dentist, particularly for periodontists. This article highlights the practical significance and urgency of strengthening such fundamental training within the current landscape of oral healthcare. These essential competencies, mandatory for both periodontists and general dentists, include periodontal examination, manual supragingival scaling, subgingival scaling and root planing, ultrasonic instrumentation, as well as basic periodontal surgical procedures such as gingivectomy and periodontal flap surgery. Proficiency in these skills is crucial for preventing periodontal diseases, arresting disease progression, and achieving long-term clinical stability. Furthermore, this article identifies seven common cognitive and operational misconceptions in current periodontal practice and proposes corresponding strategies. Neglecting fundamental skills while blindly pursuing advanced devices, complex procedures, or techniques absence of scientific evidence equates to abandoning the foundation of periodontal therapy. Therefore, continuous enhancement and innovating fundamental skills training in undergraduate, postgraduate, and dental continuing education hold strategic importance for improving the overall standard of periodontal disease prevention and treatment in China.