BPE code 4 periodontal assessment — ORE Part 1 MCQ

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EasyPeriodontologyBPE code 4 periodontal assessmentORE Part 1

A new adult patient has BPE scores of 4 in two sextants and 3 in another. Bitewings taken for caries show generalised horizontal bone loss. The patient smokes ten cigarettes daily and has bleeding on probing. What is the most appropriate investigation?

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Correct answer: B — Full periodontal charting with appropriate periodontal radiographs

Explanation lettering: C = shown as A · E = shown as C · A = shown as E

BPE code 4 in any sextant mandates full periodontal charting of the whole dentition with appropriate radiographs before treatment, per SDCEP guidance. This patient has BPE 4 in two sextants plus evidence of bone loss on bitewings and bleeding on probing—classic findings of periodontitis requiring comprehensive assessment. Full charting and radiographs allow determination of disease extent, staging, grading, and baseline establishment for treatment planning and monitoring. Option A (symptom-driven care) is inappropriate as periodontitis is often asymptomatic and waiting increases risk of undiagnosed disease—a common GDC complaint. Options C, D, and E are not part of initial periodontal diagnosis and distract from the core investigation need.

Reference: SDCEP Prevention and Treatment of Periodontal Diseases in Primary Care (2nd edn, 2014). https://www.periodontalcare.sdcep.org.uk/guidance/assessment/clinical-examination/periodontal-probing/bpe-screening-of-adults/