Clinical Dental Measurements Quiz

Questions and Answers

What is the formula for calculating the width of the attached gingiva?

Sum the width from the mucogingival junction and the pocket depth

Measure from the gingival margin to the mucogingival junction (correct)

Measure the pocket depth at the center only

Subtract the pocket depth from the total width of the AG (correct)

How do you measure Clinical Attachment Level (CAL)?

Measure from a fixed point, usually the CEJ, to the base of the sulcus or periodontal pocket.

To measure CAL when recession is present, you must add the probing depth and the gingival margin level: Probing depth + _____ = clinical attachment level.

gingival margin level

What is the significance of CAL?

It is a more accurate indicator of periodontal support than probing depth. Signup and view all the answers

Match the following notations with their meanings regarding the position of the gingival margin:

(0) = Free gingival margin slightly coronal to CEJ (-) = Free gingival margin significantly covers CEJ (+) = Free gingival margin is apical to CEJ Signup and view all the answers

What is the probing depth in the given example where the probing depth is 6MM and the gingival margin is 0MM?

6MM Signup and view all the answers

In the scenario where probing depth is 9MM and gingival margin is -3MM, what is the clinical attachment level?

6MM Signup and view all the answers

What does CAL stand for?

Clinical Attachment Level Signup and view all the answers

What is the main disadvantage of probing depths?

The position of the gingival margin may change with tissue swelling or recession. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Attached Gingiva Width Measurement

To calculate attached gingiva width, measure from the gingival margin to the mucogingival junction.
Measure pocket depth at the same location to ensure accuracy.
Subtract the pocket depth from the total width of the attached gingiva for a precise measurement.

Clinical Attachment Level (CAL) Measurement

Start with measuring pocket depth, then assess recession present.
Add pocket depth and recession to determine Clinical Attachment Level (CAL).

Mucogingival Junction (MGJ) Measurement

For identifying MGJ, measure distal of tooth 15 as most recession occurs in that area.

Understanding CAL

Represents the estimate of periodontal support around the tooth using a periodontal probe.
Measured from a fixed point, often the Cementoenamel Junction (CEJ), to the base of the sulcus or pocket.

Probing Depths

Probing depth is the measurement from the gingival margin to the base of the periodontal sulcus or pocket.

Probing Depth Limitations

Changes in gingival margin position can affect probing depth readings due to tissue swelling or recession.

Reliability of CAL

CAL is noted for being a more accurate indicator of periodontal support compared to probing depth.
It enables monitoring of periodontal changes over time and is essential for distinguishing between gingivitis and periodontitis.

Calculating CAL Under Specific Conditions

If the gingival margin is slightly coronal to the CEJ, probing depth equals CAL.
If the gingival margin is significantly coronal to the CEJ, CAL is calculated by subtracting the gingival margin level from the probing depth.
In the presence of recession, CAL is calculated by adding the probing depth and gingival margin level.

Gingival Margin Position Notation

Notation system indicates gingival margin positions:
- (0) indicates free gingival margin slightly coronal to the CEJ.
- (-) indicates free gingival margin significantly covering CEJ.
- (+) indicates free gingival margin apical to CEJ.

Description

This quiz focuses on essential measurements in clinical dentistry, particularly pertaining to the assessment of the attached gingiva and Clinical Attachment Level (CAL). Test your knowledge on the formula for calculating the width of attached gingiva and other related concepts. Perfect for dental students and professionals alike!