Which statement best describes the PHP index?

• A. It Measures Calculus Formation.
• B. It Measures Plaque Removal Success on Six Teeth.
• C. It Records Tooth Color.
• D. It Measures Bone Density.

Answer: (B)

The key idea here is that this index focuses on how well a patient removes dental plaque after hygiene instruction, using six designated teeth as the standard sample. The Pak (or Patient Hygiene Performance) index is designed to quantify plaque control by examining the presence of plaque around the gingival margin on six specific teeth. After a demonstration of proper brushing and flossing, disclosing solution helps reveal any remaining plaque, and the clinician records how well the patient has cleaned those exact teeth. The resulting score reflects plaque removal success and the patient’s current hygiene effectiveness over time.

This focus is distinct from other measurements. Calculus formation, tooth color, and bone density are assessed by different tools or indices, not this one.