Common orthodontic indices and classification

Abstract

An orthodontic index is a rating or categorizing system that assigns a numeric score or alphanumeric label to a person's occlusion. Indexing of malocclusions and their correction is important in epidemiology, diagnosis, communication between clinicians as well as with their patients, and assessing treatment outcome. Many useful indices have been put forward, but no one method appears to be equally suitable for the use of epidemiologists, public health programme planners and clinicians. This article describes the common clinical orthodontic indices and classifications used in the UK. CPD/Clinical Relevance: Readers can gain an insight into the advantages and disadvantages of the commonly used orthodontic indices and classifications in the UK.