Periodontics · single question
A patient presents with buccal recession limited to tooth #25 only, with a probing depth of 2 mm and bleeding on probing. There is no radiographic bone loss. What is the MOST accurate diagnosis?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Localized gingivitis with recession of #25
Key features: (1) recession is LOCALIZED to #25 only, (2) pocket depth is 2 mm (within normal limits), (3) no radiographic bone loss — no periodontitis, (4) bleeding on probing = inflammation = gingivitis. This is LOCALIZED gingivitis with recession — the recession is a separate localized finding and the inflammation is consistent with gingivitis, not periodontitis.
- A. Incorrect — generalized implies multiple teeth are affected. The recession is only at #25, making this a localized condition.
- B. CORRECT. Localized gingivitis with recession of #25. BOP and 2 mm probing with no bone loss indicate gingivitis. Recession at one tooth only = localized finding. No attachment loss/bone loss = not periodontitis.
- C. Incorrect — while localized is correct, periodontitis requires radiographic bone loss or clinical attachment loss. With 2 mm probing and no bone loss, this is gingivitis, not periodontitis.
- D. Incorrect — generalized is wrong (only one tooth involved), and periodontitis requires attachment loss/bone loss, which is absent here.