Periodontics · single question
A patient presents with generalized heavy calculus and gingival inflammation, but no radiographic bone loss. Which procedure is MOST appropriate?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. Full-mouth debridement
- A. There is no bone loss and no indication that the teeth are non-restorable — extraction is unjustifiable.
- B. Osseous surgery addresses bony defects. With no radiographic bone loss, there are no defects to correct, and surgery would never precede initial therapy in any case.
- C. Correct. When heavy calculus and inflammation prevent an accurate periodontal evaluation, FULL-MOUTH DEBRIDEMENT is the appropriate first step: gross removal of supra- and subgingival deposits to allow the tissues to resolve enough for a definitive diagnosis and treatment plan at a re-evaluation appointment.
- D. A routine prophylaxis is intended for a patient with a healthy or gingivitis-level periodontium and minimal deposits; heavy generalized calculus exceeds what a prophylaxis addresses.