Epidemiology

Periodontics  ›  Diagnosis

Epidemiology of Periodontal Disease

High-yield revision notes with linked practice questions, written for dental students and candidates preparing for the ADC and other licensing examinations.

High-yield notes

Gingival index was given by Loe and Silness but plaque index was given by Silness and Loe.

Gingival index is a type of reversible index.

Index tooth for plaque index are 16, 12, 24, 36, 32 and 44.

The Russel's periodontal index is a composite index as it records both reversible changes due to gingivitis and irreversible changes due to periodontitis.

Criteria observed on Russel's index are gingival inflammation, bone loss using radiograph, pocket formation, masticatory function, and mobility but it does not measure pocket depth.

The 2 mm long black band in CPITN-C probe is present from 3.5 mm -5.5 mm.

CPITN-E probe does not have black ring at 8.5 mm and at 11.5.

Various gingival indices are modified gingival index, sulcus bleeding index, papillary bleeding index, gingival bleeding index, modified sulcular bleeding index, Eastman interdental bleeding index, gingival periodontal index, gingival-bone count index, extent and severity index.

Practice questions

Select an option to check your answer. Answers are shown below each question.

Question 1

For periodontal diseases smoking is a

  • ARisk factor
  • BPrognostic factor
  • CBoth of above
  • DNone of above
Answer: C. Both of above
Question 2

When there is bleeding on probing the score of gingival index is

  • A1
  • B2
  • C3
  • D4
Answer: B. 2
Question 3

The NIDCR probe has markings separated by

  • A1mm
  • B2mm
  • C3mm
  • D4mm
Answer: B. 2mm
Question 4

Which of the following is not "Ramjford's tooth"?

  • A16
  • B36
  • C14
  • D21
Answer: C. 14
Question 5

The periodontal index when the teeth are depressible in sockets

  • A2
  • B4
  • C6
  • D8
Answer: D. 8
Question 6

Which of the following is not a risk factor for periodontal disease

  • ASmoking
  • BNutritional deficiency
  • Ctype I diabetes
  • DType Ii diabetes
Answer: B. Nutritional deficiency
Question 7

Equipments required for periodontal index

  • ALight
  • BLight and mouth mirror
  • CLight,mouth mirror and explorer
  • DLight, mouth mirror and graduated probe
Answer: C. Light,mouth mirror and explorer
Question 8

The total number of periodontal sites that are examined in NIDCR method

  • A32
  • B28
  • C14
  • D7
Answer: B. 28
Question 9

The direct cause of gingivitis is

  • ACalculus
  • BPlaque
  • Cfaulty restoration
  • DMalocclusion
Answer: B. Plaque
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These notes are compiled from standard periodontology texts for study purposes. They are a revision aid, not a substitute for your own reading or current clinical guidelines. If you spot an error, please leave a comment.