PERIO CHARTING IS A STANDARD OF CARE
Before looking at the importance and profitability of periodontal charting, let’s look at the standards:
In its Revised 2016 Standards for Clinical Dental Hygiene Practice, the American Dental Hygienists’ Association says, “A comprehensive periodontal examination is part of the clinical assessment,” including a full-mouth periodontal charting.
A periodontal chart should report six data points, the ADHA says:
- Probing depths
- Bleeding points
- Suppuration
- Mucogingival relationships/defects
- Recession
- Attachment level/attachment loss
Why such a complete chart? Would a faster “spot checking” method be adequate?
“No,” says Beverly Maguire, RDH, writing for RDH Magazine. Without a complete chart, you’re “simply assuming the patient is healthy.” Plus, failure to diagnose periodontal disease could expose your practice to litigation, which would definitely cut into your profits and your reputation.
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Published by Emme Sanders, RDH
Emme Sanders, RDH brings over 25 years of leadership experience and concierge-level service to the dental community through speaking, coaching and writing. By applying her chairside clinical and presentation skills outside the operatory, Emme reached higher in her profession to become a trainer for Dexis Digital Radiography and Imaging and Acteon North America. She achieved ACE Certification, is a graduate of Transformational Trainers, a member of Speaking and Consulting Network, Speaking Consulting Network, Academy of Dental Management Consultants and developed a thriving coaching career.
With hands-on experience in dental practices from boutique to bread and butter, Emme understands the delicate balance of clinical periodontal therapy coupled with esthetic dentistry. Emme is an expert at treatment coordinating and case presentation skills to help patients say yes to optimal care. Her greatest passion is activating dental teams to realize their potential, strategically developing goals, and achieving higher levels of success. Emme has developed a thriving private coaching business with Inspired Hygiene.
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