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Unlabelled: Non-surgical periodontal therapy is an integral part of periodontal treatment and has been defined as plaque removal, plaque control, supra- and subgingival scaling, root surface debridement, and the adjunctive use of chemical agents., Clinical Relevance: Knowledge of the role of non-surgical periodontal therapy is central to good patient care.

Unlabelled: Periodontitis is an inflammatory condition initiated by microbial plaque but influenced by an array of factors that affect the development and progression of the disease. This paper summarizes the major risk factors for periodontal disease and the potential to modify specific factors., Clinical Relevance: The assessment of patients with periodontal diseases must include an evaluation of risk and susceptibility. While removal of bacterial plaque and plaque-retentive factors remains the focus of treatment, for successful, long-term management of periodontal diseases, it is also important to eliminate known risk factors.

Unlabelled: The diagnosis and management of periodontal diseases requires a detailed examination of the signs and symptoms associated with periodontal disease. This requires a screening procedure, the BPE being sufficient in the majority of cases. Detailed examination is, however, required in more advanced or severe cases. The general dental practitioner should follow a systematic and organized examination to identify and differentiate between individuals with gingivitis, and those with mild, moderate and more advanced forms of periodontitis. Treatment planning, including the decision to refer to a consultant/specialist when appropriate, requires a clear understanding and satisfactory interpretation of the information gathered from the examination. This reduces the risk of over or under treatment, helps in evaluating the individual's response to therapy and reduces the risk of litigation., Clinical Relevance: The assessment and clinical examination of patients with periodontal diseases, as detailed in this paper, are essential for the diagnosis, effective treatment planning and future maintenance care of patients in general dental practice.