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Periodontitis staging and grading — NDEB AFK MCQ

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HardPeriodonticsPeriodontitis staging and gradingNDEB AFK

A 52-year-old has interdental clinical attachment loss of 6 mm at multiple teeth, radiographic bone loss to the middle third of roots, and no tooth loss from periodontitis. The patient smokes 12 cigarettes daily. What is the most important consideration?

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Correct answer: A — Smoking modifies grading and prognosis

Staging reflects severity and complexity, while grading estimates progression risk and is modified by risk factors such as smoking. Bleeding score is important but does not replace staging and grading. The pearl is that classification should guide prognosis, consent, recall, and intensity of risk-factor intervention.

Reference: AAP/EFP 2017 periodontal classification; NDEB KSAs 2024