Periodontology Anatomy - Gingival fibers

The periodontium includes specialized tissues that serve two functions which include both surrounding and supporting the teeth in order to maintain them in the maxillary and mandibular bones. The word comes from the Greek terms peri-, meaning "around" and -odont, meaning "tooth". When taken literally, periodontium translates to "around the tooth". Periodontics is a dental specialty that focuses on the care and maintenance of these specific tissues. The specialty provides the support needed in order to maintain the function of the teeth. The practice consists of four principal areas which include the following:

  1. Gingiva
  2. Periodontal Ligament (PDL)
  3. Cementum
  4. Alveolar Bone Proper

The tissues located in the periodontium form together as an active group of tissues. The alveolar bone is surrounded by the subepithelial connective tissue of the gingiva. The connective tissue of the gingiva is then covered by the gingival epithelia. The cementum overlaying the tooth’s root, is attached to the adjacent cortical surface of the alveolar bone by the alveolar crest, horizontal and oblique fibers of the periodontal ligament.

Gingival fibers are the connective tissue fibers which are found in the gingival tissue adjacent to the teeth. They aid in holding the gum tissue firmly against the teeth. They are primarily composed of type I collagen, however, type III fibers are also involved. These fibers connect the tooth to the gingival tissue.

Gingival Fibers Functions

The gingival fibers have the following functions:

  • Hold the marginal gingiva against the tooth
  • Provide stability to the marginal gingiva
  • Stabilize the marginal gingiva by connecting it with both the tissue of the more rigid attached gingiva and the cementum layer of the tooth

Gingival fibers and periodontitis

Gingival fibers help to protect against periodontitis. Once they are compromised, they cannot be regenerated. When the gingival fibers are destroyed, the gingival sulcus will increases in depth apically. This allows debris and bacteria to remain in contact with the delicate sulcular and junctional epithelia over time.

Gingival Fibers

Gingival fibers can be arranged into three different categories.

  • Dentogingival group - there are three different types of fibers within the dentogingival group:
    • Fibers extending towards the crest of the gingiva
    • Fibers extending laterally to the outer surface of the gingiva
    • Fibers extending outward, beyond the height of the alveolar crest and downward along the cortex of the alveolar bone
  • Circular group - these fibers are unique in that they exist entirely within the gingiva, but do not come in contact with the tooth
  • Transseptal group - these fibers are often described as spanning the interproximal tissue between the adjacent teeth, where they are embedded. There are two additional types of fibers included within this group:
    • Semicircular fibers: fibers that run through the facial and lingual gingiva around the teeth. The fibers attach to the interproximal surfaces of the same tooth.
    • Transgingival fibers: fibers that run between two non-adjacent teeth. The fibers are embedded in the cementum of their proximal surfaces and pass around the tooth in the middle of the two teeth attached with these fibers.
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Dr. Alkakhan

Dr. Waleed completed a General Practice Residency at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, gaining advanced clinical training in surgical treatments. His thirst for expertise led him to specialize in Periodontics and Implant Surgery at the prestigious Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC). At MUSC, he served as Chief Resident of Periodontics and conducted groundbreaking research on macrophage plasticity during periodontal inflammation, earning a second Master's of Science degree.

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Dr. Daru

In 2005, Dr. Daru embarked on her educational odyssey, crossing continents to pursue her passion for dentistry. She obtained her Master of Science in Oral Biology and a certificate in Periodontics from the prestigious New York University and the University of Maryland, Baltimore, in 2010. During her academic years, she delved into intensive research, particularly focusing on innovative bone regeneration techniques, showcasing her dedication to advancing the field.

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Dr. Fields

Dr. Fields, a native of Lexington, Kentucky, embarked on his dental journey at Georgetown College, where he earned a B.S. degree in biology/chemistry. He then pursued his passion for dentistry, graduating with a Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) from the University of Louisville in 1989. Additionally, he earned the prestigious Ma.C.S.D. degree, specializing in IV conscious sedation, showcasing his commitment to advancing his skills and knowledge for the benefit of his patients.

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Dr. Gupta

Driven by a dedication to excellence, Dr. Gupta embarked on a transformative periodontal residency at the University of Detroit Mercy. Here, she earned her Master of Science and a certificate in Periodontics while simultaneously serving as an adjunct faculty for the School of Dentistry for three years. Her commitment to advancing dental knowledge took her to an international stage, where she presented groundbreaking research on clinical treatment for gum recession and root coverage at a prestigious conference in London.

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Dr. Zalewsky

Following his military service, Dr. Zalewsky pursued advanced training at Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry. There, he earned a Certificate in Periodontics and Oral Implantology, along with a Master of Science in Oral Biology. This comprehensive training equipped him to handle intricate periodontal conditions and complex oral implant procedures with precision and skill.

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