Clinical standardization of horizontal tooth mobility.

The clinical measurement of horizontal tooth mobility is discussed on the background of the current theories regarding the pathogenesis of periodontal disease. The common indices which have been designed to measure horizontal tooth mobility are discussed and critiqued. These indices are not sensitive in that they do not discriminate well between small increments in mobility. In addition, many of the indices cannot be utilized for individual teeth on a longitudinally reproducible basis. The preliminary testing of an in vitro model with mobile teeth which was designed to aid the clinician in assessing tooth mobility is described. Results indicate that the clinician may be capable of discriminating between mobilities that are in the 0.1 mm range, with the aid of the model.