Exploring aspects of gingival zenith in maxillary incisors, canines
Better understanding of the gingival zenith level, position and symmetry in the maxillary incisors and canines may aid in aesthetic symmetry during restorative dental therapy, according to a systematic review and meta-analysis published by Martins et al in The Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry.
Irregular symmetry and contour of the gingival zenith can negatively affect dental aesthetics. Some reports have stirred controversy regarding gingival zenith positioning, magnitude, and location and may cause imperfect positioning and leveling of the gingival zenith.
In the analysis, investigators used cross-sectional studies to analyze data on the gingival zenith level and position among healthy adult patients who had complete dentition of the maxillary anterior sextant. They found that in 96%, 3% and 1% of central incisors; 84%, 14% and 1% of lateral incisors; and 43%, 44% and 5% of canines; the gingival zeniths were distally positioned, coinciding with the tooth axis or mesially positioned, respectively. Further, the gingival zenith was coronally leveled in 82% of the lateral incisors and the contralateral positioning and leveling of the gingival zenith was found to be symmetrical.
The investigators emphasized that the more anterior the tooth, the greater the frequency and magnitude of the gingival zenith’s distal position. However, higher-quality studies may be needed to better understand the findings.
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