Keratinization of the oral epithelium

The morphology of the keratinizing epithelia in the mouth is reviwed in the light of recent knowledge. There appears to be a spectrum of degrees of keratinization rather than distinct types, and a degree of keratinization is reflected in the degree of packing and orientation of tonofilaments. The role of keratohyaline and other granules in the process is discussed and it is suggested that modification of the cell membrane is an important part of keratinization. Although the potential of the various areas in the mucosa is genetically determined and appears early in fetal life, the connective tissue exerts an influence on the extent of keratinization of the surface in a manner which is not understood.