Gingival Sulcus
The shallow, V-shaped space between the free gingiva and the tooth surface, bounded apically by the junctional epithelium.
Full Definition
The gingival sulcus is the physiological space encircling each tooth, with its outer wall formed by the sulcular epithelium of the free gingiva, its inner wall by the tooth surface (enamel or cementum), and its base by the coronal cells of the junctional epithelium. In health, its depth ranges from 0 to 3 mm on probing. When inflammatory changes cause apical migration of the junctional epithelium or coronal enlargement of the tissue, the sulcus becomes a periodontal pocket. Gingival crevicular fluid flows from this space and can be sampled for diagnostic purposes. Editors should note that 'gingival sulcus' is the healthy counterpart of the pathological 'periodontal pocket,' and the two must not be used interchangeably.
Usage
Usage note: 'Gingival crevice' is an acceptable synonym but is less commonly used in contemporary clinical writing. Ensure consistency of terminology within a single document.
In Context
- "In the absence of bone loss, the probing depth reflects the depth of the gingival sulcus rather than a true pocket." — Periodontal textbook chapter
- "Samples of gingival crevicular fluid were collected from the gingival sulcus using filter paper strips." — Research methodology section