Abstract
Background and aims. The anatomical features of gingiva are important in appropriate periodontal treatment
planning. This study was designed to determine the anatomic features of gingival in a group of dental
students in Tabriz, Iran.
Materials and methods. One-hundred healthy subjects (aged 20-24 years old) with no history of periodontal
or orthodontic treatment and a gingival index of zero or one were included. The following measurements were
made using a periodontal probe: the distance between the gingival margin and base of gingival sulcus (depth of
sulcus); the distance between the gingival margin and mucogingival junction (keratinized gingiva); and the distance
between base of gingival sulcus and mucogingival junction (attached gingiva). Existence of free gingival
groove was also recorded by observation. Mean values of collected data were calculated.
Results. The widest attached gingiva and keratinized gingiva on the buccal aspect was seen in upper lateral
incisor and their minimum in lower premolars. The maximum depth of sulcus on the buccal surface was recorded
in upper right molar and its minimum on the buccal surface was found in lower left canine. All of the
studied students had free gingival groove on the buccal or oral aspect of at least one tooth.
Conclusion. The anatomic features found in this study were similar to those of the previous studies. However,
mild variations with regard to race differences were observed.