If the correlation coefficient between debris and calculus scores is 0.94, the relationship between gingival disease and plaque accumulation is statistically:

If the correlation coefficient between debris and calculus scores is 0.94, the relationship between gingival disease and plaque accumulation is statistically:

• A. Strong
• B. Weak
• C. Moderate
• D. No correlation

Answer: (A)

A correlation coefficient near 1 shows a very strong positive linear relationship. Here, 0.94 means plaque accumulation and gingival disease rise together in a tightly predictable way, indicating a strong association. In dental research terms, this level of r is considered almost a perfect positive relationship, so the correct interpretation is that the link is strong, not weak, moderate, or nonexistent. The positive direction also means more plaque tends to accompany more gingival disease.

A correlation coefficient near 1 shows a very strong positive linear relationship. Here, 0.94 means plaque accumulation and gingival disease rise together in a tightly predictable way, indicating a strong association. In dental research terms, this level of r is considered almost a perfect positive relationship, so the correct interpretation is that the link is strong, not weak, moderate, or nonexistent. The positive direction also means more plaque tends to accompany more gingival disease.