Periodontology: practice question

A Dentistry question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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Dentistry · Periodontology

Sample item

Which finding best distinguishes periodontitis from uncomplicated gingivitis?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

B. Clinical attachment loss with alveolar bone destruction

Periodontitis involves irreversible loss of periodontal attachment and supporting alveolar bone, whereas gingivitis is confined to soft-tissue inflammation.

Option by option

  • A. Sensitivity to cold after whitening

    Whitening sensitivity does not establish periodontal destruction.

  • B. Clinical attachment loss with alveolar bone destruction (correct)

    Correct: attachment and bone loss define periodontitis.

  • C. Bleeding on brushing without attachment loss

    Bleeding alone can occur in reversible gingivitis.

  • D. Transient tongue coating

    Tongue coating is not a periodontal diagnosis.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

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Questions about this Dentistry question

What is the answer to this Dentistry question?

The best answer is B, Clinical attachment loss with alveolar bone destruction. Periodontitis involves irreversible loss of periodontal attachment and supporting alveolar bone, whereas gingivitis is confined to soft-tissue inflammation.

Why is "Sensitivity to cold after whitening" not the answer?

Whitening sensitivity does not establish periodontal destruction.

Why is "Bleeding on brushing without attachment loss" not the answer?

Bleeding alone can occur in reversible gingivitis.

Why is "Transient tongue coating" not the answer?

Tongue coating is not a periodontal diagnosis.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Periodontology in Dentistry. The correct option holds because: Correct: attachment and bone loss define periodontitis.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Periodontology?

Learn the dental formula, eruption ages and tooth structure once, as tables. Then use the flashcards and the other Dentistry questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.