Lecture Notes: Periodontal Health

Categories of Periodontal Health

Periodontal health can be categorized into three main groups:

1. Periodontal Health on an Intact Periodontium
2. Periodontal Health on a Reduced Periodontium in a Non-Periodontitis Patient
3. Periodontal Health on a Reduced Periodontium in a Successfully Treated Stable Periodontitis Patient

1. Periodontal Health on an Intact Periodontium

• Characteristics:
  • Healthy, coral pink gums
  • Stippling present
  • Gums snug against teeth
  • No redness or bleeding
• Radiograph Findings:
  • Normal bone level, 2 mm below CEJ (Cemento-Enamel Junction)
• Summary: Completely healthy mouth with no gum recession or bone loss.

2. Periodontal Health on a Reduced Periodontium in a Non-Periodontitis Patient

• Characteristics:
  • Gums appear healthy and pink
  • Presence of gum recession
  • Minimal to no bleeding upon probing
• Causes of Reduced Periodontium:
  • Excessive brushing, often with a hard toothbrush leading to gum recession
• Patient Profile:
  • No significant bone loss
  • Not considered a periodontitis patient

3. Periodontal Health on a Reduced Periodontium in a Successfully Treated Stable Periodontitis Patient

• Characteristics:
  • Healthy-looking gums, no bleeding upon probing
  • Presence of gum recession
• Radiograph Findings:
  • Significant bone loss observed
  • Bone levels stabilized, not worsening over time
• Patient Management:
  • Regular dental visits
  • Proper brushing and flossing habits
• Patient Profile:
  • Previously had periodontitis
  • Stable condition due to successful treatment
  • Classified under periodontal health despite past bone loss

Summary

Understanding the different categories of periodontal health helps in identifying and managing patients effectively. Each category requires distinct consideration based on the patient's history, current gum condition, and bone health.