Which statement accurately reflects PSR?

• A. It requires full radiographic assessment.
• B. It provides tooth-by-tooth depth measurements for all teeth.
• C. It is rapid, simple, and cost-effective.
• D. It replaces the need for any periodontal exam.

Answer: (C)

PSR is a rapid screening tool used to quickly flag potential periodontal problems and steer patients toward a full evaluation. It uses a specially designed probe to assess sextants and records a single code for each sextant that reflects the deepest probing depth found, along with the presence of calculus, defective margins, or bleeding. This approach keeps the process fast, simple, and cost-effective, which is why it’s valued as a screening method rather than a complete diagnostic chart. It does not require full radiographs as part of the screening, and it does not provide tooth-by-tooth pocket depth measurements for every tooth. A full periodontal exam with charting and radiographs is still needed if PSR indicates deeper pockets or other concerns.