The Occlusal Index Used to Assess Orthodontic Treatment

Abstract

Search of the literature has failed to reveal any previous objective analysis of changes produced by treatment. Using the Occlusal Index a survey was carried out on study models of patients accepted for treatment in the Orthodontic Department of The London Hospital, over a nine year period (1963–71). The spread of severity of malocclusion of these patients was assessed to see if there had been a gradation in severity through the period as reflected by a trend in the yearly mean values of the Occlusal Index scores. Analysis of the results failed to show any discernible trend. The Occlusal Index was used to gain an objective and quantitative assessment of change produced by treatment and subsequently to correlate this change with the use of fixed and removable appliances. A slight but statistically significant difference was apparent in treatment results. Fixed appliance cases showed superiority to removable appliance cases, producing a better end result and greater degree of improvement. The difficulties in the use of application of the Occlusal Index to British cases are discussed and suggestions are made for modification.