Grade C Risk Factor Modification — NDEB AFK MCQ

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ModeratePeriodontologyGrade C Risk Factor ModificationNDEB AFK

In the context of the 2017 AAP/EFP classification, a patient with periodontitis who has diabetes mellitus and smokes would most likely be classified as which Grade?

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Correct answer: D — Grade C (rapid rate of progression)

Under the 2017 classification, Grade is modified by risk factors. Grade C is assigned when the rate of bone loss is rapid (bone loss/age ratio >1.0) OR when risk factors are present that significantly modify the expected rate of progression. Diabetes and smoking are the two most important grade-modifying factors — their presence generally elevates the grade regardless of the calculated bone loss/age ratio. A patient with both diabetes and smoking would almost certainly be classified as Grade C due to the compounding effect of these risk factors on periodontal destruction.

Reference: Tonetti MS et al – J Clin Periodontol, 2018