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Periodontics: Oral Health and Wellness I. Understanding Periodontal Health, Recognizing Disease States and Choices in Treatment Strategies

COURSE NUMBER: 50

Spencer L. Fried, DDS, MS

Credit Hours:

4 Hour(s)

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This course provides information to assist clinicians in promoting the goals of oral health by first understanding periodontal health, recognizing disease states and providing choices in treatment strategies. The course reviews basic period...

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Overview

This course provides information to assist clinicians in promoting the goals of oral health by first understanding periodontal health, recognizing disease states and providing choices in treatment strategies. The course reviews basic periodontal anatomy (to include connective tissue, bone, periodontal ligament and cementum) and physiology, periodontal disease classification, as well as the challenges, manifestations and implications of attachment loss. Evaluation of periodontal therapeutic strategies is best accomplished through a review of the scientific evidence on the topic. The objective of the therapeutic strategies reviewed is to improve the health and function of all periodontal attachment structures rather than only bone in isolation.


Periodontal health depends on several factors, such as the periodontal microflora, oral hygiene, host response and other periodontal risk factors. Currently, we have yet to consistently and predictably restore periodontal attachment lost due to periodontal disease. The most frequently occurring periodontal disease is chronic periodontitis (formerly termed adult periodontitis). As the name implies, chronic periodontitis is often a slowly progressing disease which responds favorably to treatment and can be managed adequately; however, disease sequellae may not always be predictably restored.


Before one can recognize disease, one must understand periodontal health. The healthy periodontium is a strong yet flexible structure which attaches the teeth to the bones of the maxilla and mandible. In health, the periodontal attachment includes cementum, periodontal ligament, connective tissue and alveolar bone. The attachment bone plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and survival of the dentition.

  • Intended Audience:

    Dentists, Dental Hygienists, Dental Assistants, Dental Students, Dental Hygiene Students, Dental Assisting Students

  • Date Course Online:

    Nov 25, 2003

  • Last Revision Date:

    Jul 26, 2022

  • Course Expiration Date:

    Jul 25, 2025

  • Cost:

    Free

  • Method:

    Self-instructional

  • AGD Subject Code(s):

    490

  • Technical Requirements:

    Stable internet connection and the latest version of browser and device software are recommended.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this course, the dental professional should be able to:


  • Understand components of the healthy periodontium.
  • Define periodontal health goals.
  • Understand an overview of periodontal physiology and bone remodeling.
  • Identify manifestations of diseased periodontium.
  • Understand periodontal disease classification.
  • Describe patterns of attachment loss and their prognostic and treatment implications.
  • Evaluate choices of treatment strategies and how they meet periodontal health goals.

Disclaimers

  • P&G is providing these resource materials to dental professionals. We do not own this content nor are we responsible for any material herein.
  • Participants must always be aware of the hazards of using limited knowledge in integrating new techniques or procedures into their practice.  Only sound evidence-based dentistry should be used in patient therapy.

Note:  Registration is required to take test.

Author(s)

Conflict of Interest Disclosure Statement

  • The author reports no conflicts of interest associated with this course.

Spencer L. Fried, DDS, MS Cincinnati, Ohio

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Submission Information

Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) Submission For credit transfers to appear in your AGD account in real time, make sure to add your AGD membership number in the field provided on the “Share Your Test Score” page.


CE Broker For all states that use CE Broker for licensure, “proof of completions” are electronically reported the first of every month. If a course was taken in November, the “proof of completion” will be submitted the beginning of December.

Recognition

AGD Pace Logo

Approved PACE Program Provider

THE PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY


Nationally Approved PACE Program Provider for FAGD/MAGD credit.

Approval does not imply acceptance by any regulatory authority or AGD endorsement.


8/1/2021 to 7/31/2027

Provider ID# 211886

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AADH Approved Program Provider

Procter & Gamble is designated as an approved Provider by the American Academy of Dental Hygiene, Inc. #AADHPGC (January 1, 2024-December 31, 2025). Approval does not imply acceptance by a state or provincial Board of Dentistry. Licensee should maintain this document in the event of an audit.