Which index measures interdental bleeding and uses a wooden interdental cleaner with observation after 15 seconds?

• A. Eastman Interdental Bleeding Index
• B. Gingival Bleeding Index
• C. Dean's Fluorosis Index
• D. DMFT/DMFS

Answer: (A)

Measuring interdental bleeding after using a wooden interdental cleaner is a specific method to assess interdental inflammation. The Eastman Interdental Bleeding Index uses a sterile wooden interdental cleaner inserted into the interproximal area, then the clinician waits about 15 seconds and observes whether bleeding occurs. This simple timing window helps quantify inflammation specifically in interdental spaces and provides a repeatable way to track changes with improved oral hygiene or treatment. The other options don’t fit this method: the Gingival Bleeding Index uses a periodontal probe with a different timing for bleeding; Dean's Fluorosis Index assesses fluorosis; DMFT/DMFS measure caries experience.