Current standard diagnostic testing in the nonspecific model is limited to historical measurements such as radiographs, visual examination, probing depth and inflammation scores. These tests have been demonstrated to have little predictive value and limit the clinicians role to documenting continuing damage caused by anaerobic infections.

Diagnosis in the nonspecific model consists chiefly of classification of severity of the historical anatomic damage to the patient such as Class II, localized Class III periodontitis meaning pocket depths 4-6mm throughout the mouth with localized greater than 6mm. There are no predictions for the future of this patient only advice and surgery prescriptions designed to improve plaque control.