The primary difference between attached and free gingiva lies in their connection to the tooth and underlying structures: free gingiva is not directly attached to the tooth surface, while attached gingiva is firmly bound to the cementum and alveolar bone.
Here's a detailed breakdown of the differences:
Free Gingiva (Marginal Gingiva)
- Attachment: Closely adapted to the tooth surface but not attached to it. It forms a cuff around the tooth.
- Location: Surrounds the tooth in the region of the cementoenamel junction (CEJ).
- Appearance: Light pink in color, smooth, and has a scalloped appearance that follows the contours of the teeth. Forms the gingival margin.
- Gingival Sulcus: Forms the soft tissue wall of the gingival sulcus (the space between the tooth and the gingiva). This sulcus is normally 1-3mm deep.
- Mobility: Can be gently deflected away from the tooth surface with a probe.
Attached Gingiva
- Attachment: Firmly attached to the underlying cementum and alveolar bone via collagen fibers.
- Location: Extends from the base of the free gingiva to the mucogingival junction.
- Appearance: Usually stippled (similar to an orange peel), which indicates firm attachment to the underlying bone. The color is typically pink, although it may contain melanin pigmentation in darker-skinned individuals.
- Mucogingival Junction: Delineated from the alveolar mucosa by the mucogingival junction.
- Mobility: Immobile and firmly bound down; cannot be deflected.
Table Summarizing the Key Differences:
| Feature | Free Gingiva (Marginal Gingiva) | Attached Gingiva |
|---|---|---|
| Attachment | Not attached to tooth | Attached to cementum and bone |
| Location | Around the CEJ | From free gingiva to MGJ |
| Appearance | Smooth, scalloped | Stippled (usually) |
| Mobility | Mobile | Immobile |
| Function | Forms gingival sulcus wall | Provides support and protection |
In essence, the free gingiva protects the tooth and forms a seal, while the attached gingiva provides structural support and firmness to the gingival tissue, allowing it to withstand the forces of chewing and other oral activities. The attached gingiva's firm attachment is crucial for preventing recession and maintaining periodontal health.
