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Section Through the Gingiva
In this section through the gingiva, the space (C) between the dentin of the tooth (A) on the right and the gingiva (B) on the left is normally occupied by enamel which has been lost during tissue processing. Note the high connective tissue papillae (*) that insert into the keratinized epithelium (D) that faces the oral cavity.
The mucosa facing the enamel space lacks connective tissue papillae and a keratinized layer. It is called sulcular or crevicular epithelium (E) because it forms the gingival wall of the sulcus. The sulcus is the shallow groove between the gingiva and tooth. If the sulcus deepens, it is referred to as a periodontal pocket.
Legend
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* - connective tissue papillae |
D - keratinized stratified squamous
epithelium |
