The Periodontal Disease Index (PDI)

Abstract

THE PERIODONTAL Disease Index is a clinician's modification of Russell's PI in- dex for epidemiological surveys of periodontal disease.The PDI index is primarily concerned with an accurate assessment of the periodontal status of the individual per- son.Emphasis is placed on recording of the attachment level of the periodontal tis- sues relative to the C-E junction.Such ac- curate measurable assessments are essential for longitudinal studies of periodontal dis- ease and as a scientific basis for clinical trials in Periodontology. Objectives of the PDI IndexThe following objectives were incorporated into the design of the index:1. To assess prevalence and severity of gingivitis and Periodontitis within the indi- vidual dentitions and in population groups.2. To provide an accurate basis for inci- dence and longitudinal studies of periodontal disease.3. To provide a meaningful basis for es- timate of need for periodontal therapy in selected population groups.4. To provide accurate recordings for clinical trials of preventive and therapeutic procedures in periodontics.5. To provide measurable reference data for assessment of correlations with factors of potential significance in the etiology of periodontal disease.