The plaque control record is an example of which index?

The plaque control record is an example of which index?

• A. Simple index
• B. Cumulative index
• C. Irreversible index
• D. Global index

Answer: (A)

The plaque control record is a simple index because it records a straightforward yes/no condition on defined units (tooth surfaces): is plaque present on that surface or not. It does not track severity, duration, or past status, and it provides a current proportion of surfaces with plaque (for example, plaques present divided by total surfaces examined). This distinguishes it from cumulative indices (which accumulate past disease), irreversible indices (where the condition can’t disappear once present), or global indices (which summarize overall dentition status across multiple factors). So, it’s classified as a simple index.

The plaque control record is a simple index because it records a straightforward yes/no condition on defined units (tooth surfaces): is plaque present on that surface or not. It does not track severity, duration, or past status, and it provides a current proportion of surfaces with plaque (for example, plaques present divided by total surfaces examined). This distinguishes it from cumulative indices (which accumulate past disease), irreversible indices (where the condition can’t disappear once present), or global indices (which summarize overall dentition status across multiple factors). So, it’s classified as a simple index.