Objective: To investigate the features of the fill of interdental spaces by gingival papillae and the associated factors.
Methods: Fifteen volunteers with healthy gingiva were involved in this study. The height and thickness on the alveolar crest level of 62 maxillary anterior papilla were measured radiographically with cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans. A standardized periodontal probe with Williams markings was used for measurements of the papilla width on the alveolar crest level.
Results: When the papilla was complete fill interdentally, the mean height of papillary tissue on the alveolar crest level (equal to contact point-bone crest) was (3.67 ± 0.51) mm. The mean thickness of papilla on the alveolar crest level was (8.38 ± 0.75) mm. The papilla height had a positive correlation with papilla thickness (r = 0.433, P < 0.001).
Conclusions: The cone-beam computed tomography can be used for clear visualization of the papilla profile and the measurements of papilla height and thickness. Thicker and wider tissue was associated with an increased likelihood of having a complete papilla fill.