International Journal of Dentistry Research 2026; 11(2): 26-29 ;   DOI:10.31254/dentistry.2026.11202

Review Article

Challenges in Applying the 2017 Periodontal Classification in Diverse Populations: Insights from Morocco

Sihame Chemlali¹ , Zineb Essadeq¹ , Samia Belfellah¹ , Kissa Jamila¹

Sihame Chemlali,Zineb Essadeq,Samia Belfellah,Kissa Jamila

1. Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco

*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.

Received: 27th March, 2026 / Revised: 1st January, 1970 / Accepted: 27th June, 2026 / Published : 16th July, 2026

Abstract

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Periodontal diseases are multifactorial conditions due to their numerous modifying and aggravating factors. Their diagnosis becomes particularly challenging in the absence of a proper classification system, which would allow clinical parameters to be confronted with recent scientific and epidemiological data. Over the years, the understanding of the nature of periodontal diseases has evolved in line with advances in medical research. Nevertheless, debate surrounding classification systems persists. The 2017 classification of periodontal diseases established by the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) and the European Federation of Periodontology (EFP) aimed to address the limitations of the Armitage classification published in 1999. However, some aspects of this classification may be difficult to apply in specific contexts, such as in Morocco, where the previous distinction of aggressive periodontitis (AgP) as a separate category remains clinically relevant.

Keywords

Periodontal Diseases, Periodontitis, Antimicrobials, Aggressive Periodontitis, Clinical Diagnosis, Morocco

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