Gingival Bleeding Index measures what?

• A. Calculus deposition on teeth
• B. Plaque levels on tooth surfaces
• C. Color of the gingiva
• D. Presence of bleeding in the gingiva

Answer: (D)

Bleeding after gentle probing reflects gingival inflammation, and the Gingival Bleeding Index captures that response. It asks whether bleeding occurs in the gingival tissue when the sulcus is lightly probed, providing a direct measure of inflammatory status in the gingiva. This makes it the best choice for what the index assesses. The other factors—calculus deposits, plaque levels on tooth surfaces, and the color of the gingiva—are evaluated by different measures or observations, not by this index. A positive bleeding response indicates gingival inflammation and potential periodontal concern, while no bleeding suggests healthier gingival tissue at the tested sites.