Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease characterised by destruction of the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. Various risk factors are associated with the condition including insufficient oral hygiene, smoking, diabetes, genetics and stress. Because the condition is usually chronic, it requires accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment and long-term maintenance and monitoring.

Co-written by the British Society of Periodontology (BSP) and the Dental Defence Union (DDU), this course combines our respective expertise on the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of periodontitis, and the dento-legal aspects surrounding it.

Learning objectives

By the end of the course learners will:

understand the need for a detailed history for periodontal patients, and appreciate the importance of obtaining consent when managing patients with the condition
know how to use the Basic Periodontal Examination efficiently and effectively
be aware of how to assess patients' periodontal conditions accurately, clinically and radiographically
understand how to diagnose periodontal conditions and formulate effective treatment plans
appreciate different treatment methods and understand what to expect from them
know how to assess treatment response and decide on further options
understand the roles of antimicrobials and surgery in periodontics
appreciate when it might be appropriate to consider specialist referral
understand the role and importance of supportive periodontal therapy
appreciate the importance of communicating effectively with patients.

You don't need to finish the course all at once – you can save your progress and pick up where you left off whenever it's convenient. After successfully completing the assessment, you can download a certificate for three hours of verifiable CPD.

Not a member?

If you're not a DDU member yet, you can still access the course by registering on our e-learning platform via the link below:

Sign up for the course.

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