Structured Case-based Learning to Strengthen Periodontal and Peri-implant Diagnostic Competence: A Perspective

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Background The periodontal and peri-implant disease classification developed at the 2017 World Workshop and published in 2018 asks undergraduate students to do more than identify a disease description. They must bring together clinical findings, radiographic bone loss, disease extent and complexity, evidence of progression, and relevant risk modifiers to reach a diagnosis they can explain and defend. Evidence supporting routine and systematic integration of classification-focused case based learning (CBL) across Indian undergraduate in Periodontology program is limited. Objective This perspective proposes Structural Case-Based Learning (SCBL) framework by providing a conceptual solution to address this implementation gap and connect diagnostic reasoning with clinical entrustment. Methods This SCBL framework involve integration of progressive cases linked with a shared diagnostic-reasoning template, calibrated faculty feedback, followed by simulated assessment and observation in the workplace. This pathway thus supported the development and assessment of students’ diagnostic competence. Conclusion The proposed SCBL framework offers a practical approach to classification-focused learning in undergraduate Periodontology. Future studies are needed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy, quality of reasoning, assessor agreement, transfer to patient care and retention of learning.