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WHO Periodontal Probe — NDEB AFK MCQ

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EasyPeriodontologyWHO Periodontal ProbeNDEB AFK

Which periodontal probe has a ball-ended tip designed for use in epidemiological surveys (Community Periodontal Index)?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: AWHO/CPITN probe

The WHO/CPITN (Community Periodontal Index of Treatment Needs) probe has a 0.5 mm ball tip (to reduce tissue penetration and improve patient comfort), a coloured band between 3.5-5.5 mm, and markings at 8.5 and 11.5 mm. It is the standard probe for the CPI (Community Periodontal Index) used in epidemiological surveys. The ball tip also allows detection of subgingival calculus by tactile feedback. Probing force should not exceed 20-25 g (0.2-0.25 N).

Reference: Newman – Newman and Carranza's Clinical Periodontology, 13th ed., 2019