How is moderate mobility recorded in a patient with periodontal disease?

Moderate mobility in a patient with periodontal disease is recorded with the number 2. This classification system is commonly used to denote varying degrees of tooth mobility as follows:

• A score of 1 indicates slight mobility, where there is a small amount of movement, but the tooth is still fairly stable.

• A score of 2 represents moderate mobility, which is characterized by greater movement compared to slight mobility, but the tooth remains somewhat secure in its socket.

• A score of 3 indicates severe mobility, where the tooth can move significantly and may even be moved in multiple directions, often indicating advanced periodontal disease or the potential for tooth loss.

• A score of 4 is typically reserved for teeth that are deemed to be extruding or are highly mobile with a clinical assessment pointing towards imminent loss.

Understanding this scoring is vital for tracking the progression of periodontal disease and making informed decisions regarding a patient’s treatment plan.