Which set of sites is typically probed around each tooth in a full periodontal examination?

• A. Mesiobuccal, mesi lingual, distobuccal, distolingual
• B. Mesiobuccal, buccal midline, distobuccal, mesi lingual, lingual midline, distolingual
• C. Mesiobuccal, buccal, lingual, distolingual
• D. Buccal, lingual, mesial, distal

Answer: (B)

The important concept is that a full periodontal examination records six probing sites around each tooth to capture where pockets may vary around the tooth. These sites are mesio-buccal, buccal midline, distobuccal on the buccal (facial) side, and mesio-lingual, lingual midline, distolingual on the lingual (palatal/lingual) side. Probing at multiple points ensures you don’t miss a localized deep pocket, which could be present on the midfacial or midlingual surfaces even if other areas seem healthier. Other sets that omit the midline sites or reduce the number of sites risk missing these localized pockets and give an incomplete chart.