Periodontics for the ADC Part 1 Exam: High-Yield Topics, Traps & Study Tips
Periodontics carries roughly 12% of the ADC Part 1 written exam — ≈34 of 280 questions. Below: the high-yield topics to master, the classic traps that cost candidates marks, and how to study this subject efficiently.
High-yield topics
| Topic | What to focus on |
|---|---|
| 2017 World Workshop classification | staging (I–IV) and grading (A–C) — the single most examined perio topic |
| Periodontitis vs gingivitis diagnosis | clinical attachment loss vs bleeding on probing; case-based diagnosis questions |
| Non-surgical therapy | scaling and root planing outcomes, re-evaluation timing, when to refer or go surgical |
| Furcation involvement | Glickman/Hamp classifications and prognosis implications |
| Perio-systemic links | diabetes bidirectionality, smoking's effect on treatment response and bleeding |
| Acute conditions | necrotising gingivitis/periodontitis, perio abscess vs periapical abscess discrimination |
| Peri-implant disease | mucositis vs peri-implantitis, risk factors, maintenance |
Classic exam traps
- Staging by pocket depth instead of interdental clinical attachment loss / radiographic bone loss
- Perio abscess vs endo abscess — check vitality: perio abscess teeth are usually vital
- Expecting bleeding in smokers — nicotine vasoconstriction masks BOP, underestimating disease
- Forgetting grading modifiers: smoking and diabetes shift grade, not stage
How to study Periodontics
- Build a one-page staging/grading table and re-draw it from memory weekly
- Practise case vignettes: age + CAL + bone loss % → stage and grade in under a minute
- Know re-evaluation at 4–6 weeks cold — sequencing questions are frequent
The exam tests this subject through clinical vignettes, so practise it the same way — scenario-based MCQs with explanations, not isolated fact recall. Start with the free readiness check below to see exactly where you stand in periodontics, then see the full exam format guide and the 8-week study plan.
Where do you actually stand?
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PassADC is an independent study platform and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the Australian Dental Council. Exam details change — always confirm current format and fees at adc.org.au.