Admission Test for Dental Hygiene (ATDH) Practice

What is the purpose of periodontal therapy?

1. To treat and manage periodontal disease

2. To perform cosmetic improvements

3. To extract decayed teeth

4. To whiten discolored teeth

The correct answer is: To treat and manage periodontal disease

The primary purpose of periodontal therapy is to treat and manage periodontal disease, which includes conditions affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. This type of therapy aims to reduce inflammation, control bacterial infection, and halt the progression of the disease, which can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. Periodontal therapy can encompass various procedures, such as scaling and root planing, which remove plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces and below the gum line, and surgical interventions for more advanced cases. Additionally, it involves educating patients on proper oral hygiene practices and maintenance care to ensure long-term health of the periodontium, which is crucial for maintaining overall dental health. Other choices focus on different dental concerns unrelated to periodontal disease management. Cosmetic improvements, tooth extraction, and whitening are aspects of dental care that address aesthetic or functional issues but do not specifically target the prevention or treatment of periodontal disease.