mucogingival

Mucogingival refers to the tissues of the gingival region and, more specifically, to the mucogingival junction, the line where keratinized attached gingiva meets alveolar mucosa. The term encompasses features of the keratinized tissue, mucosal mobility, and the relationship between vestibular depth and gingival margins. Clinically, it is used to describe conditions that involve the border between the gingiva and movable mucosa and the width of keratinized tissue.

Anatomy and terminology: The attached gingiva is keratinized tissue extending from the gingival margin to the mucogingival junction. The alveolar mucosa beyond the junction is nonkeratinized and more movable. The mucogingival junction can vary in position and may be difficult to identify in some individuals. The width of attached gingiva (WAG) is measured as the distance from the mucogingival junction to the gingival margin and is influenced by tooth position, inflammation, and individual biology.

Clinical significance: A sufficient width of attached gingiva is often considered desirable for periodontal stability, tooth movement, and successful mucogingival surgery. Mucogingival defects include a lack of attached gingiva, shallow vestibules, or aberrant frenal attachments, and are associated with gingival recession, hypersensitivity, and challenges in plaque control. While the presence of attached gingiva is not a sole determinant of periodontal disease, mucogingival conditions can affect treatment outcomes and tissue management.

Assessment and management: Evaluation involves documenting MGJ position, width of keratinized tissue, recession extent, and vestibular depth. Treatment may include mucogingival surgery such as free gingival grafts, connective tissue grafts, or pedicle and coronally advanced flap procedures to increase attached gingiva, deepen the vestibule, or correct frenal pull. In implant dentistry and restorative contexts, mucogingival considerations support esthetic integration and soft-tissue health.