An Overview of Assessment Tools Used in Periodontics

Abstract

Periodontal diseases refer to the diseases of gums or bone resulting in inflammation and loss of teeth. The disease affects adults more commonly, but children are also at risk of development of disease. Both modifiable and nonmodifiable risk factors play a vital role in progression of disease. Risk assessment is of utmost importance in periodontics as it contributes to early prevention and management of the disease thus decreasing rate of progression and associated complication. For the purpose of risk assessment various assessment tools are available that are routinely used by dental practitioners. The aim of this research is to review the available information regarding the assessment tools used in periodontics. American academy of periodontology self-assessment tool, oral health information suite, periodontal risk assessment hexagonal diagram, periodontal risk assessment model by Chandra, are some risk assessment tools used by dentists. Almost 20% of patient population who require treatment to prevent or slow the course of severe periodontal disease can be identified by utilization of a risk assessment questionnaire. The risk assessment findings can aid in clinical diagnosis and designing of an effective treatment strategy which can enhance the quality of dental care for patients. Well-established theoretical literature is present regarding these assessment tools but data about their clinical use and patient outcome is very limited. In future more clinical research is needed regarding the use of assessment tools in periodontics as they are quite important due to their role in early identification and intervention and also in predicting future outcome.a