Assessing the gingival biotypes for better planning of esthetics in Indian population

Abstract

Background: Anterior fixed prosthesis fabrication is a challenging one which involves many aspects and one among them which dictates the most is the gingiva. Any recession causes exposure of the tooth and prosthetic junction leading to esthetic failure. Hence it is important to know the biotypes before planning the restoration. Aim: To evaluate the prevalence of different gingival biotypes in individuals with relation to age, gender, tooth size and papillary height with respect to maxillary central incisors. Methods & Materials: A total of 200 subjects in the range of 18-50 years participated in the study. Three clinical parameters were recorded which included crown width & crown length ratio, papillary height and gingival transparency of two maxillary central incisors. The measurements were tabulated and statistically analyzed. Data was statistically analyzed using SSPS software. Results: The relationship of biotypes with clinical parameters was assessed using t test and chi square test. Thicker gingival biotype was more prevalent in male population with short, wider form of teeth whereas in females’ thin gingival biotypes with long and narrow teeth forms were observed. Conclusion: Both the young and old age groups have the same prevalence of thick gingival biotype.