2017 Periodontal Classification Descriptors — NDEB AFK MCQ
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Correct answer: A — Stage (severity/complexity) and Grade (rate of progression/risk)
Explanation lettering: E = shown as C · C = shown as D · D = shown as E
The 2017 AAP/EFP periodontal classification replaced the previous terms 'chronic' and 'aggressive' periodontitis with a unified diagnosis of 'periodontitis' characterised by two dimensions: Stage (I-IV) — describing severity (attachment loss, bone loss, tooth loss) and complexity (furcation involvement, ridge defects, need for complex rehabilitation); and Grade (A-C) — describing the rate of disease progression (based on bone loss/age ratio), responsiveness to therapy, and impact on systemic health (smoking, diabetes). This allows more nuanced, individualised patient assessment.
Reference: Tonetti MS et al – J Clin Periodontol, 2018