The relationship between gingival phenotype and periodontal diagnosis in young adults attending the Dr René Puig Bentz Dental Clinic at the Universidad Nacional Pedro Henríquez Ureña

This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between gingival phenotype and periodontal
diagnosis in young adults attending the Dr René Puig Bentz Dental Clinic at the Universidad
Nacional Pedro Henríquez Ureña. A cross-sectional experimental study was conducted with a
clinical sample of 60 patients, predominantly female. The age distribution was equally divided
between groups aged 18–25 and 26–35, enabling analysis of possible variations in the
evaluated clinical parameters according to age and sex. Patients underwent a standardized
clinical examination to assess gingival thickness and the width of keratinized and attached
gingiva, as well as to classify the gingival phenotype. Variables related to oral hygiene were
also recorded, including brushing frequency, brushing technique, toothbrush bristle type, and
toothbrush replacement frequency. The results showed a predominance of the thin gingival
phenotype, characterized by narrow keratinized gingiva and thin gingival thickness. While
most participants had healthy or stable periodontium, some had diagnoses compatible with
gingivitis. Statistical analysis using the chi-square test revealed no significant relationship
between gingival phenotype and periodontal diagnosis. This led to the null hypothesis being
accepted. In terms of hygiene habits, patients who used Bass or modified Bass techniques
and changed their toothbrush regularly were found to have better periodontal health.
Conversely, patients who did not follow any specific technique, used hard bristles, or changed
their toothbrush infrequently exhibited higher levels of inflammation, particularly among
individuals with a thin gingival phenotype. In conclusion, the results enable us to characterize
the studied population clinically, establishing that although the thin gingival phenotype
predominates, it does not show a direct association with periodontal diagnosis. However, oral
hygiene habits were found to be a relevant factor in gingival condition, highlighting the
importance of promoting preventive behaviors tailored to each patient's individual
characteristics.