Periodontics: 1. Identification and diagnosis of periodontal diseases in general dental practice.

UNLABELLED: The diagnosis and management of periodontal diseases requires a detailed examination of the signs and symptoms associated with periodontal disease. This requires a screening procedure, the BPE being sufficient in the majority of cases. Detailed examination is, however, required in more advanced or severe cases. The general dental practitioner should follow a systematic and organized examination to identify and differentiate between individuals with gingivitis, and those with mild, moderate and more advanced forms of periodontitis. Treatment planning, including the decision to refer to a consultant/specialist when appropriate, requires a clear understanding and satisfactory interpretation of the information gathered from the examination. This reduces the risk of over or under treatment, helps in evaluating the individual's response to therapy and reduces the risk of litigation.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The assessment and clinical examination of patients with periodontal diseases, as detailed in this paper, are essential for the diagnosis, effective treatment planning and future maintenance care of patients in general dental practice.