The width of lingual mandibular attached gingiva.

Area of Science:

• Periodontology
• Oral anatomy

Background:

• The width of attached gingiva is crucial for periodontal health.
• Understanding variations in lingual attached gingiva is important for clinical procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the width of healthy lingual attached gingiva in different age groups.
• To establish normative data for lingual attached gingiva dimensions.

Main Methods:

• 120 individuals in good oral health were grouped by age.
• Measurements of gingival sulcus depth and free gingiva to mucogingival junction distance were taken.
• Statistical analysis included mean, standard deviation, and analysis of variance.

Main Results:

• A distinct pattern of lingual attached gingiva width was observed.
• The widest zones were lingual to first and second molars (mean 4.7 mm).
• Width varied by tooth type and between individuals, but not between sexes.

Conclusions:

• Normative data for lingual attached gingiva width were established.
• Findings provide a guide for diagnosis, treatment planning, and surgical procedures.
• Dentists can use this data to assess and manage lingual attached gingiva effectively.