Partial recording of gingivitis and dental plaque in children of different ages and in young adults

In epidemiologic studies, total recordings of the amount of dental plaque and the degree of gingival inflammation tend to be too time-consuming. Various partial recording methods have accordingly been suggested. However, the validity of these methods when applied to different age groups has not been investigated sufficiently. The aim of the present study was to test whether different systems for partial recording of plaque and gingivitis can take the place of a full-mouth recording in children of different ages and in young adults. Ninety children, divided into three age groups (4-6, 7-9, 14-16 yr), and 30 adults (20-22 yr) were examined. The degree of gingival inflammation was recorded using the Gingival Index and the amount of dental plaque using the Plaque Index. Two partial recording methods were tested. One of these covered the teeth suggested by Ramfjord, modified for children with a primary dentition, and the other the front segment of the maxilla. The results were compared with those from an examination of all tooth surfaces. In all age groups excellent agreement was found between the partial recording method suggested by Ramfjord and a full-mouth recording of both the gingival state and the amount of dental plaque. Examination of the maxillary front segment was less accurate and resulted in a systematic underestimate.