Which periodontal probing depth is recorded when the 3 mm mark is just barely covered?

Question

BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

To approach this question, first recall how periodontal probing depths are read during an examination. The depth is measured from the crest of the gingival margin to the base of the periodontal pocket, and clinicians often estimate readings to the nearest 0.5 mm.
Option 2.5: If the 3 mm mark were just barely covered, a shallower reading like 2.5 would imply the 3 mm line was not covered or the pocket depth is around 2.5 mm. This would not match the description of the 3 mm mark being barely covered.
Option 3: A reading of 3.0 mm would indicate that the 3 mm line is exactly at the gingival margin level, not merely covered by the tissue. The phrase “just barely covered” suggests a depth slightly greater than 3.0, not exactly 3.0.
Option 3.5: The description “3 mm mark is just barely covered” implies the base of the pocket lies just below the 3 mm line, meaning a depth a bit more than 3 mm. Estimating to 0.5 mm increments commonly yields 3.5 mm, which aligns with the idea of being slightly deeper than 3.0 mm.
Option 4: A 4.0 mm reading would require the 4 mm mark to be covered, indicating a significantly deeper pocket than described. This overstates the depth relative to the cue about the 3 mm line.
In summary, the clue about the 3 mm mark being “just barely covered” points to a measurement that is just past 3.0 mm, with 3.5 mm being a standard estimated reading in 0.5 mm steps, whereas the other options describe shallower or deeper readings that do not fit the given cue.

Which periodontal probing depth is recorded when the 3 mm mark is just barely covered?

View Explanation

Log in for full answers

Similar Questions

What tools are used to measure the SBI?

Which instrument would be BEST to detect furcation involvement on multirooted teeth?

How is pocket depth measured with a periodontal probe?

During periodontal assessment, which of the following BEST describes the rationale for walking the probe along the entire gingival sulcus?

The distance from CEJ to JE is 6 mm. The patient presents with 3 mm of gingival overgrowth. What is the probing depth?

In a consumer society, many adults channel creativity into buying things

Economic stress and unpredictable times have resulted in a booming industry for self-help products

People born without creativity never can develop it

More Practical Tools for Students Powered by AI Study Helper

Homework AI Solver

Stylized AI Paper Writer

Plagiarism Checker Assistant

Citation AI Academic Writing Tool

In-Class Translation Assistant

AI Note Generator

AI Quiz Answers

Past Exam Questions from University Test Bank

Smart Practice Assistant

Adaptive Practice

Making Your Study Simpler