Dental Assistant Practice Exam

What does Code 1 represent during a dental assessment?

1. No bleeding

2. Light bleeding

3. Severe bleeding

4. Moderate bleeding

The correct answer is: Light bleeding

During a dental assessment, Code 1 specifically refers to light bleeding. This code is part of a classification system used to document periodontal health and disease status in patients. When a dental professional observes light bleeding during a periodontal examination, it suggests that there may be some inflammation present in the gum tissue. This information is crucial as it helps the dental team gauge the severity of periodontal conditions and determine appropriate treatment plans. For instance, identifying light bleeding can indicate the need for improved oral hygiene practices or nonsurgical intervention to prevent progression to more serious periodontal disease. In contrast, other codes in the classification system represent different levels of bleeding, with moderate and severe bleeding indicating more advanced periodontal disease. Proper understanding of these codes ensures effective communication within the dental team and provides clear insights into patient care and management.