Assessment Of Gingival Phenotype At The Aesthetic Zone In A Malay Population Using Probe Test

Abstract

Introduction: The gingival phenotype (GP) of teeth at the aesthetic zone often influences dental rehabilitation plans and treatment outcomes. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of GP in the Malay population in relation to gender and age. Methods: The GP of 100 patients were determined using the Probe test method. Other clinical parameters were assessed include crown width/crown length (CW/CL) ratio, tooth morphology and width of keratinised tissue. Periodontal parameters were assessed by two calibrated examiners. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, one-way ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis test. Results: A higher prevalence of thick GP was found at the maxilla for both genders, whereas a thin phenotype was observed at the mandible. At maxilla, both thick and thin GP were found in all age groups, while the mandible showed a higher prevalence of thin GP. Significant differences in GP were found between males and females for mandibular and maxillary anterior teeth and the mandibular lateral incisor (p<0.05), while no significant difference was found for other parameters assessed; age group, CW/CL, tooth morphology and WKT. Conclusion: Thicker GP is more prevalent in male population and at maxillary anterior. Mandibular anterior GP presented commonly with a thin GP regardless of gender or age-group.