Gingival Biotypes Identification Among Malay Subjects

Abstract

Gingival biotypes play an important role in the prognosis and treatment outcome of the prosthodontics and
periodontal plastic procedure at the aesthetic region. This study aimed to identify and compare the gingival
biotypes between male and female subjects of Malay population related to the upper incisor teeth. 24 males and
females aged from 18 to 47 years old who fulfilled all the inclusion criteria were selected. The gingiva and the
incisors morphometric were examined and measured using William’s periodontal probe. Crown width and
crown length ratio (CW/CL), gingival width (GW), papilla height (PH), probing depth (PD) and gingival
thickness (GT) were recorded. William’s probe was inserted into the gingival sulcus and the transparency of
probe determined the gingival thickness. Data was analysed using SPPS version 22.0 and non-parametric test
was employed. Statistical significant was set at p<0.05. Result showed that more than 80% of subjects having
thin biotypes at upper anterior region. There was no significant difference of the gingival biotypes between
male and female subjects (p=0.68). In conclusion, this study demonstrated that thin biotype is the main biotype
in Malay population. Therefore, it is recommended that management of anterior region in Malay patient
necessitates careful and proper treatment procedures as thin gingival biotypes may influence tissue response and
disparities in the aesthetic outcome.