The importance of the periodontal status in the diagnosis of periodontal disease

Abstract

Introduction. Periodontal disease is one of the current problems of modern dentistry. Despite the efforts made by the researchers and clinicians to identify the etiological factors, the pathogenetic mechanism of debut and evolution of the periodontal disease, this issue remains an enigma. As a result, the treatment and prophylaxis techniques do not have the expected outcome. The individual assessment of the periodontal status plays a major role in diagnosing and carrying out the treatment plan of periodontal disease. The latter represents a quantification of the health status or the affliction of the superficial (gum) or the deep (radicular cementum, desmodontium, alveolar bone) marginal periodontium, which support, maintain and secure the tooth in the dental alveolus. Aim of the study. To establish a correct and complete diagnosis, based on a complex examination, including the assessment of the periodontal status. Materials and methods.. The study comprised 27 patients with periodontal disease (gingivitis, marginal periodontitis with varying degrees of affliction), of which 11 women and 16 men between the ages of 19 and 68 years. The patients received a complete clinical and paraclinical examination, as well as having their periodontal status assessed, which was then recorded in the zmk-Bern University type periodontal record, used at both the diagnosis and reassessment stage. The values of the periodontal status of the patients, together with the radiological images (OPG, CT, CBCT) were the basis for establishing a complete and correct diagnosis. Results. The examination of the patients with periodontal disease using the data from the periodontal status allowed us to establishment a correct diagnosis and to outline the complex treatment plan for all the patients in the study. At the same time, it is the most efficient way of monitoring the patients over time. Thus, periodontal disease was stopped and stabilized in all the patients, who are then registered and monitored. Conclusions. The values of the periodontal status have an important role in the diagnosis, the development of the treatment plan, monitoring the evolution of the disease, as well as in the health education of the patients with periodontal disease.