CAL stands for which term in periodontics?

• A. Cumulative Attachment Line
• B. Calcified Attachment Level
• C. Cementoenamel Link
• D. Clinical Attachment Level

Answer: (D)

In periodontics, the amount of tooth-supporting attachment that has been lost is captured by the Clinical Attachment Level. CAL is defined as the distance from the cemento-enamel junction to the base of the periodontal pocket. It reflects attachment loss and is used to gauge disease severity and progression. The value automatically accounts for gingival recession: if recession is present, CAL = probing depth + recession; if there is no recession, CAL simply equals the probing depth. This is why Clinical Attachment Level is the standard term used, since the other phrases listed aren’t recognized terms in periodontal terminology.