Periodontal disease: What nurses need to know.

The article discusses periodontal or gum disease in adults and how nurses can help patients treat the condition. Topics covered include the disease's classification as either gingivitis or periodontitis, its pathophysiology, risk factors, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and management, and questions that nurses can ask to assess the condition in patients. Also noted is a nurse's possible advising of patients on recommended dental hygiene protocols.