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Sulcular Epithelium — MFDS Part 1 MCQ

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ModeratePhysiologySulcular EpitheliumMFDS Part 1

Which feature distinguishes sulcular epithelium from junctional epithelium in clinically healthy gingiva?

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Correct answer: C — It lines the soft-tissue wall of the gingival sulcus without attaching to the tooth surface

Sulcular epithelium lines the soft-tissue wall of the gingival sulcus but does not form an epithelial attachment to the tooth, making A the distinguishing feature. Both sulcular and junctional epithelia are normally non-keratinised, so non-keratinisation alone does not distinguish them. Junctional epithelium attaches to enamel or cementum through an internal basal lamina and hemidesmosomes, making B a description of junctional epithelium. Its relatively wide intercellular spaces and reduced desmosomal contacts account for C. Junctional epithelium initially develops in association with reduced enamel epithelium and characteristically tapers apically to only a few cell layers, excluding D and E.

Reference: Theodoro LH et al. Role of junctional epithelium in maintaining dento-gingival adhesion and periodontal health. Frontiers in Dental Medicine. 2023;4:1144537. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39916903/