Plaque Index
A standardized scoring system used to quantify the amount of dental plaque present on tooth surfaces for clinical and research documentation.
Full Definition
A plaque index is a numerical measure used by dental hygienists to assess and document the level of bacterial biofilm on specified tooth surfaces. Several validated systems exist, including the Silness-Löe Plaque Index and the O'Leary Plaque Control Record, each using different scoring criteria. Editors must recognize that 'plaque index' is a category of tools, not a single instrument, and should verify which specific index is referenced in any manuscript. Confusion between different index systems can lead to methodological inaccuracies in research publications.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify the named scoring system (e.g., Silness-Löe, O'Leary) when editing research documents. 'Plaque index' alone is insufficiently precise for scientific publication.
In Context
- "The baseline plaque index was recorded using the Silness-Löe method prior to initiating the oral hygiene intervention." — Clinical Research Protocol
- "Authors must specify which plaque index was employed; citing only 'plaque index' without qualification is insufficient for publication." — Journal Submission Guidelines