Recommendations

For referral:

Consult any locally produced referral guidelines and the BSP ‘Referral Policy and Parameters of Care’ to determine if the patient is a suitable candidate for referral.

Carry out initial therapy to address inadequate plaque removal, smoking status (if applicable) and to remove supra- and sub-gingival deposits.

Provide supportive periodontal therapy and monitoring for patients who have been discharged from secondary care.

For record keeping:

Record the results of the periodontal examinations (basic and/or full) carried out and the current standard of oral hygiene.

Record the diagnosis, suggested treatment plan and details of costs.

Document any discussions you have with the patient, for example, treatment options, risks and benefits of treatment, oral hygiene advice, smoking cessation, alcohol consumption and/or other lifestyle factors.