What is the main reason for evaluating a patient after periodontal therapy?

The main reason for evaluating a patient after periodontal therapy is to review treatment effectiveness and make adjustments. This evaluation is critical in determining how well the therapy has worked and whether the objectives of the treatment plan have been met. This follow-up allows the practitioner to assess clinical parameters such as probing depths, attachment levels, and overall health of the periodontal tissues.

Additionally, it provides an opportunity to gather feedback from the patient about their oral hygiene practices and any concerns they might have post-treatment. Based on the findings during this evaluation, the dental professional can make necessary modifications to the treatment plan, implement additional therapies if required, and guide the patient on maintenance strategies to prevent recurrence of periodontal disease.

Other aspects, such as conducting radiographic assessments or scheduling the next appointment, might be part of the overall evaluation process but are secondary to the primary goal of ensuring the effectiveness of the treatment and maintaining periodontal health. Collecting payment, while necessary from a business perspective, is not a therapeutic goal and does not contribute directly to evaluating patient outcomes after periodontal therapy.