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Measuring plaque in clinical trials: index or weight?
G I McCracken1, P M Preshaw, I N Steen
1School of Dental Sciences, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
Journal of Clinical Periodontology
|February 24, 2006
Summary
Plaque weight is not a more objective measure than plaque index in periodontal trials. Plaque index demonstrated better discriminant validity for plaque deposits and residual plaque after brushing.
Area of Science:
- Periodontology
- Dental Clinical Trials
- Biomarkers
Background:
- Periodontal disease assessment often relies on plaque index.
- Objective clinical outcome measures are crucial for periodontal clinical trials.
- Plaque weight is proposed as a potentially more objective alternative.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate plaque weight as a clinical outcome measure in periodontal clinical trials.
- To compare the objectivity of plaque weight versus plaque index.
Main Methods:
- 12 healthy volunteers participated in a split-mouth study.
- Plaque accumulation was induced over 24 and 48 hours.
- Plaque index and weight were measured before and after brushing.
Main Results:
- Plaque index showed better discriminant validity than plaque weight.
- Plaque index effectively distinguished between different plaque accumulation times and post-brushing levels.
- Non-linear association observed between plaque weight and plaque index.
Conclusions:
- Plaque weight offers no significant advantage over plaque index in periodontal clinical trials.
- Plaque index remains a preferred method for assessing plaque in these trials.
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