What does a periodontal prognosis estimate?

A periodontal prognosis specifically estimates the expected outcome of periodontal treatment. It assesses factors that may influence the success of treatment, including the severity of periodontal disease, the presence of risk factors (such as smoking or diabetes), and the patient’s overall commitment to oral hygiene. This evaluation helps both the clinician and the patient understand what can realistically be achieved with treatment and helps to inform decisions about the most appropriate management strategies.

Factors considered in the prognosis include clinical attachment levels, pocket depths, tooth mobility, and radiographic bone loss. By determining the prognosis, dental professionals can better tailor their treatment plans to optimize outcomes.

The other options do not pertain directly to the purpose of a periodontal prognosis. Estimating the risk of dental caries relates to a different aspect of oral health that focuses on carious lesions rather than periodontal disease. The cost of periodontal procedures pertains to financial considerations rather than clinical outcomes. Lastly, while a patient's oral hygiene status is important for prognosis, it does not itself directly encompass the expected outcome of treatment.