For Clinicians
The Perio Index is a dual-format tool designed to support patient education and case acceptance.
It includes:
Perio Score (e.g. 20/15): Number of PDs ≥5mm / bleeding on probing points
% of Mouth Impacted: % of sites with PD ≥5mm
Bleeding %: % of sites with bleeding
Quadrant Breakdown: Per quadrant PD and bleeding counts
This communicates disease in a familiar metric style (like BP or A1c). Target score = 0/0.
Use this to:
Communicate extent (without overwhelming)
Set treatment urgency
Benchmark progress between visits
For Patients
The Perio Index helps you understand your gum health clearly:
Your Score (e.g. 20/15): That means 20 areas are deep (bad pockets), 15 bled during your exam
Goal: Everyone should aim for 0/0!
% Impacted: Shows how much of your mouth is affected
Bleeding %: The higher the % the more inflammation
This makes your dental exam easier to understand, and helps you track progress over time.
Don’t worry — with the right home care and treatment plan, we can bring this score down together.
Acknowledgment
This framework is especially indebted to Trish O’Hehir, RDH, MS — whose clinical insight and patient education philosophy shaped the original numerical concept behind the Perio Index. Her work has helped reframe how hygienists and patients alike understand periodontal disease severity, and how we talk about prevention as a measurable goal.