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Biological Width — MFDS Part 1 MCQ

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HardPeriodontology PrinciplesBiological WidthMFDS Part 1

According to current periodontal terminology, which statement most accurately describes the tissues formerly termed the biological width around a natural tooth?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C — Junctional epithelium plus supracrestal connective tissue attachment; the gingival sulcus is excluded and the total dimension varies

Explanation lettering: C = shown as A · E = shown as B · A = shown as C · B = shown as E

A is correct. The structure historically called the biological width is now termed the supracrestal tissue attachment. It comprises the junctional epithelium and the supracrestal connective tissue attachment between the base of the sulcus and the alveolar crest; the sulcus itself is not a component. Although classic histological means of approximately 0.97 mm and 1.07 mm were widely taught, respectively, they should not be treated as a universal fixed dimension because marked site and patient variation occurs. Options B and C incorrectly substitute surface epithelial components for the connective tissue attachment. Option D incorrectly includes the periodontal ligament and the sulcus. Option E includes the sulcus while omitting the junctional epithelium. Restorative-margin infringement of the supracrestal connective tissue attachment is associated with periodontal inflammation and/or loss of supporting tissue.

Reference: Jepsen S et al. Periodontal manifestations of systemic diseases and developmental and acquired conditions: Consensus report of Workgroup 3 of the 2017 World Workshop, 2018. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29926943/; Schmidt JC et al. Biologic width dimensions—a systematic review, 2013. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23461747/