title: A review of the role of Epidemiology and the use of indices in periodontal research.
abstract: In this review paper, the role of epidemiological research is discussed, with particular regard to periodontal diseases. The different forms of observational epidemiological study are explained and general sources of error related to all such studies and specific sources of error related to each particular type of study are considered. The qualities of an ideal epidemiological index are listed and indices used in periodontal research are discussed in the context of the parameters they set out to assess. General considerations relating to the use of index systems in clinical practice are highlighted.
authors.affiliation: Department of Dental Surgery and Periodontology, University of Dundee.
authors.forename: A D
authors.initials: AD
authors.lastname: Gilbert
mesh_terms: D016022:Case-Control Studies; D015331:Cohort Studies; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D003774:Dental Plaque Index; D018865:Dental Research / Q000379:methods*; D004812:Epidemiologic Methods; D006801:Humans; D015588:Observer Variation; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care; D010510:Periodontal Diseases / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000628:therapy; D010512:Periodontal Index; D010514:Periodontal Pocket / Q000175:diagnosis; D012107:Research Design