Keratinised Gingiva
Pronunciation: KAIR-ah-tih-nyzd JIN-jih-vah
The portion of gingival tissue that is covered by a keratinised or parakeratinised epithelium, extending from the free gingival margin to the mucogingival junction, encompassing both the free and attached gingiva.
Full Definition
Keratinised gingiva (KG) comprises the free gingival margin, the free gingival groove, and the attached gingiva — all surfaced by a keratinised stratified squamous epithelium that provides mechanical resistance to masticatory and oral hygiene forces. Its width is measured in millimetres from the free gingival margin to the mucogingival junction and varies by tooth type and individual anatomy. Adequate keratinised gingiva is considered important, particularly around dental implants, though the minimum required width remains debated in the literature. Editors should note that 'keratinised gingiva width' and 'attached gingiva width' are related but distinct measurements; the former includes the free gingival margin, the latter does not. Spelling standardisation ('keratinised' vs. 'keratinized') must be applied consistently per house style.
Usage
Usage note: Standardize to 'keratinised' (British) or 'keratinized' (American) per style guide. Distinguish 'keratinised gingiva width' (free margin to MGJ) from 'attached gingiva width' (base of sulcus to MGJ) — these are not interchangeable in measurement protocols.
In Context
- "Pre-surgical measurement revealed only 1 mm of keratinised gingiva on the buccal aspect of the implant at site 34." — Pre-implant surgical assessment report
- "The study outcome measured keratinised gingiva width, but the methods section incorrectly describes this as 'attached gingiva width'; please reconcile." — Clinical research manuscript editorial query