The O'Leary index, a.k.a. the "Love" index

Abstract

Detection and quantification of bacterial dental plaque is considered to be crucial in dental practice. The O'Leary index is a simple tool to measure the amount of bacterial dental plaque on teeth and one of the most effective means to evaluate oral hygiene. The connotation of oral hygiene in several spheres of life is probably the reason why this index is also known in Cuba as the Love Index. We intend to shed light on the advisability of using the international term.

Keywords

• placa dental
• índice de higiene oral
• índice de placa dental
• adhesión bacteriana
• indicadores de salud.