Gingival Zenith Variations in Maxillary Anterior Teeth Across Age and Gender in the Pakistani Population

Abstract

Background: The gingival zenith plays a crucial role in influencing axial alignment and prosthetic contours. Therefore, its spatial disposition serves as a key reference for aesthetic restorations. This study examined gingival zenith position (GZP) variations in maxillary anterior teeth across different age groups and genders in the Pakistani population.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out in the clinical setting of Islamic International Dental Hospital (IIDH), from July 2022 through August 2024, on the patients who came into the outpatient department of IIDH, which included 133 participants aged 21–60 years selected by a consecutive sampling technique. GZP was measured about the vertical bisecting midline using a digital caliper on dental casts. Data analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS version 25, with chi-square tests for categorical variables, independent t-tests for gender differences, and ANOVA for age group comparisons, with a significance level set at 0.05.

Results: The sample comprised 44(33%) young adults (16–25 years) and 62% females. Distal gingival zenith deviations were most common in central and lateral incisors, with the highest rate in the left lateral incisor (56%). Canines showed nearly equal rates of no deviation and distal deviation (49% each). Mean deviations were highest in central incisors (0.33 ± 0.49). While gender had no significant impact (p > 0.05), age significantly influenced deviations in central incisors, the right lateral incisor, and canines (p < 0.05), with older participants exhibiting more distal deviations.

Conclusion: Distal deviation is predominant in central and lateral incisors, correlating with age but not gender. These findings underscore the importance of age-specific reference points in periodontal and restorative procedures.