The influence of gingival phenotype in the morphology of the central maxillary interdental papilla

Abstract

BackgroundPreservation of interdental papilla is an essential part of the functional and esthetic rehabilitation of dental treatment. It was described that thicker gingival tissues are more resistant to recession. The main objective of this investigation was to analyze if the gingival phenotype represents a potential risk factor affecting interdental papilla fill, height, or width in an esthetic region between central maxillary incisors. The secondary goals were: 1) analyze parameters describing papilla and the influence of a wide papilla basis for the vertical papillary dimension; 2) the correlation between different non-invasive measurements of gingival thickness; 3) comparison among both sexes.MethodsTogether, 54 periodontally healthy students (20–30 years old) were included in the study. Gingival thickness was measured using Pirop Ultrasonic Biometer. Phenotype was also assessed by gingival probe transparency. Papilla parameters - height and width of the interdental papilla were measured, and the degree of papilla recession was classified.ResultsNo significant correlation between papilla height, width, or papilla fill and gingival probe transparency or gingival thickness was found. Both methods of assessments of gingival phenotype showed a significant relationship. There was a significant correlation of papilla height and papilla fill. Papillae, which filled the interdental space completely, seem to be shorter. A strong positive association between papilla height and papilla width was revealed. Papillae were significantly higher in males.ConclusionThe appearance of interdental papillae could be influenced by various factors. Within the limitations of this study, results showed no significant correlation between the morphology of interdental papillae and soft tissue thickness. It seems that there is an influence of a wide papilla basis for its vertical dimension.