The proliferative activity of the long junctional epithelium (LJE) in rats was examined using stains for argyrophilic proteins of the nucleolar organizer region (AgNORs protein). The LJE was experimentally produced by insertion of a rubber piece between maxillary molars for 1 wk. After removal of the rubber, the length and AgNORs parameters of the LJE were measured and analyzed statistically. The LJE widely covered the apical side of the exposed root surface 4 wk after the removal. Its length was longest after 4 and 8 wk; it became shorter subsequently. The AgNORs were visible as black dots of various sizes and numbers on the sections. A high potential for proliferation was obvious in the LJE after 4 wk and was maintained until 12 wk after the removal. The AgNORs ratio on the connective tissue interface of the LJE was about twice of that of normal junctional epithelium after 4-12 wk. The proliferative activity on the root surface side was slightly increased after 4 wk. There was no significant difference in proliferative activity between the coronal and apical sides. These results suggest that the proliferative activity of the LJE is maintained continuously at a high level on the connective tissue interface supplying the epithelial cells. Basal cells proliferate at the connective tissue interface of the LJE, migrate directly to the root surface or via the apical portion and finally desquamate from the surface of the epithelium.