Which measure is used to assess mobility as part of periodontal evaluation?

• A. To measure bone density around the tooth.
• B. To evaluate root canal integrity.
• C. To assess tooth mobility as part of periodontal status.
• D. To determine bite force.

Answer: (C)

Mobility testing is a clinical measure used to gauge the level of periodontal support around a tooth. By gently applying pressure to the tooth with a probe or the fingers, you check for horizontal and vertical movement. The amount of movement reflects the health of the periodontal ligament and surrounding bone; more mobility signals loss of attachment and bone support, helping clinicians assess disease severity and prognosis. This focus on how firmly a tooth is held in its socket is different from measuring bone density radiographically, evaluating endodontic (root canal) status, or assessing bite force, none of which directly test mobility. So the measure used to assess mobility as part of periodontal evaluation is assessing tooth mobility itself.