Dentogingival Junction
The interface between the tooth surface and the surrounding gingival tissues, comprising the junctional epithelium and gingival fibres.
Full Definition
The dentogingival junction (DGJ) is the structural complex uniting the tooth to the gingiva, formed by the junctional epithelium and the supracrestal connective tissue attachment. It serves as the primary biological seal against the ingress of bacteria into the periodontium. In dental research manuscripts, precision in describing its components is critical, as the DGJ is frequently assessed in studies of periodontal health, surgical outcomes, and implant-tissue interfaces. Editors should note that 'junctional epithelium' and 'dentogingival junction' are related but not interchangeable. Disruption or apical migration of the DGJ is a key marker in disease progression studies.
Usage
Usage note: Do not conflate with 'gingival sulcus', which is the shallow space coronal to the junctional epithelium, not the junction itself.
In Context
- "Histological sections confirmed disruption of the dentogingival junction in all experimental subjects by week four." — Histology results section
- "The integrity of the dentogingival junction must be preserved during restorative margin placement." — Clinical guidelines document