Chronic Periodontitis Features — MFDS Part 1 MCQ
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Correct answer: A — Interdental clinical attachment loss at two non-adjacent teeth, with periodontal pocketing and radiographic bone loss
A is correct. Periodontitis is characterised by plaque-induced loss of periodontal attachment; the current case definition requires interdental clinical attachment loss at two or more non-adjacent teeth. Periodontal pockets, interdental recession and radiographic alveolar bone loss are typical associated findings. Option B describes plaque-induced gingivitis because inflammation is present without attachment or bone loss. Gingival enlargement alone (C) does not establish periodontitis. Mobility from occlusal trauma (D) can occur without periodontal attachment loss, while a periapical radiolucency related to a non-vital tooth (E) indicates endodontic rather than primary periodontal disease. The former categories of chronic and aggressive periodontitis have been replaced by staging and grading.
Reference: Scottish Dental Clinical Effectiveness Programme, Prevention and Treatment of Periodontal Diseases in Primary Care, 2nd edition, sections 3.2.3 and 6.3, 2025. https://www.periodontalcare.sdcep.org.uk/media/vjgfn5ak/sdcep-prevention-and-treatment-of-periodontal-diseases-in-primary-care-2nd-edition-nov-2025.pdf