keratinised mucosa
Pronunciation: keh-RAT-in-yzd myoo-KOH-sah
The band of firm, specialised gum tissue surrounding a dental implant or natural tooth that provides a protective barrier against mechanical and microbial challenge.
Full Definition
Keratinised mucosa (also spelled 'keratinized' in American English) is the attached, non-mobile mucosal tissue adjacent to dental implants that is considered important for long-term peri-implant health. A minimum width of 2 mm of keratinised mucosa around implants is widely cited in clinical guidelines, though its necessity remains debated in the literature. Editors must be consistent in British versus American spelling (keratinised/keratinized) according to the house style of the publication. This term frequently appears in soft-tissue management sections of implant protocols and periodontal charts. Confusion with 'attached gingiva' is common, as the two terms are related but not interchangeable in implant contexts.
Usage
Usage note: Adopt house style for -ised vs -ized spelling consistently throughout the document. Do not abbreviate.
In Context
- "The surgical plan included a soft-tissue graft to augment the zone of keratinised mucosa at the implant site." — Pre-surgical Treatment Plan
- "Less than 1 mm of keratinised mucosa was noted peri-implantly, prompting a referral for vestibuloplasty." — Periodontal Charting Record