Gingival sulcus

The gingival sulcus is a shallow space located between the surface of the tooth and the surrounding free gingiva (i.e. the gingival margin). It extends from the gingival margin to the junctional epithelium, which forms the epithelial attachment to the tooth surface. In healthy gingiva, the sulcus normally measures approximately 1-3 mm in depth and is lined by nonkeratinised sulcular epithelium.

Clinical correlates

The gingival sulcus is clinically important because it is a common site for the accumulation of dental plaque and microorganisms. Inflammatory changes within the sulcus may lead to gingivitis and, if disease progresses, the sulcus may deepen to form a periodontal pocket. Clinically, the depth of the gingival sulcus is assessed using a periodontal probe as part of routine periodontal examination.