Assessment of periodontal status and treatment needs of a disabled population using the CPITN
Bamjee, Y.; Chikte, U.M.; Cleaton-Jones, P.E.
Sadj Journal of the South African Dental Association 54(9): 413-417
1999
ISSN/ISBN: 1029-4864 PMID: 10860050 Document Number: 502347
The Community Periodontal Index of Treatment Needs (CPITN) was used to assess the periodontal status of 213 handicapped persons attending seven institutions in Johannesburg. Fewer than 2% had healthy mouths, 8% had bleeding only, followed by calculus (46%), shallow pockets (40%) and deep pockets (4%). The mean number of sextants with bleeding or higher score was 5.9. Oral hygiene instruction was indicated for 98% and prophylaxis for 90% of the participants. The CPITN was easily used in the disabled population but may overestimate treatment need in view of the current understanding that periodontal disease does not automatically progress from a low CPITN level to the next. A more appropriate measure of treatment need in handicapped persons is required.