BPE Code 3 Action — ORE Part 1 MCQ
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Correct answer: E — Pocketing of 4–5 mm; chart that sextant after initial treatment
The correct answer is E. BPE code 3 means that the WHO probe’s black band is partially visible, corresponding clinically to probing pocket depths of 4–5 mm. UK SDCEP guidance advises initial periodontal treatment, followed by detailed periodontal charting of the affected sextant(s) at post-treatment review. Whole-mouth detailed charting before treatment is the requirement for BPE code 4, where probing depths are at least 6 mm, so B and E describe code 4 management or findings. Code 1 denotes bleeding without pocketing, making C incorrect. Code 2 denotes plaque-retentive factors such as calculus with no probing depth above 3.5 mm; it requires removal of these factors rather than sextant charting before treatment, so D is incorrect.
Reference: Scottish Dental Clinical Effectiveness Programme (SDCEP), Prevention and Treatment of Periodontal Diseases in Primary Care, “BPE screening of adults”, current online guidance, https://www.periodontalcare.sdcep.org.uk/guidance/assessment/clinical-examination/periodontal-probing/bpe-screening-of-adults/