Anatomic factors influencing dimensions of soft tissue graft from the hard palate. A clinical study

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the present study was to measure the thickness of the palatal mucosa in a Jordanian (Middle Eastern) population as well as identify possible factors that may influence the thickness of palatal mucosa. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Sixty period on tally healthy subjects (29 males and 31 females) were selected. Fifteen measurement points were defined on the palate. The mucosal thickness in the hard palate was determined by “bone sounding” with a Hu‐Friedy® round periodontal probe. RESULTS: The overall mean thickness of the palatal masticatory mucosa was 3.23 ± 0.47 mm.The mean thickness increased from the gingival margin to a more apical position irrespective of the tooth measured or side of the mouth in the following sequence: canine, second molar, first premolar, second premolar and lastly, the first molar. No significant difference between gender, smoking status, gingival phenotype andsides of the mouth with the thickness of palatal masticatory mucosa was determined. A significant difference between palatal shape and palatal gingival thickness was found. CONCLUSIONS: The most appropriate site for graft harvesting is the canine‐premolar area 8‐13 mm from the mid‐palatal aspect of each respective tooth in a Jordanian population. Except for the palatal shape, the side of the mouth, smoking, gender or gingival phenotype does not affect the graft harvest. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: SCIENTIFIC RATIONALE FOR STUDY: Knowledge on the thickness of the masticatory mucosa is crucialin making decisions for surgical treatment modality and may affect surgical outcome. We measured the thickness of the palatal mucosa in a Jordanian population and identified possible influencing factors. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: The thickness varied according to the teeth and the canine to premolar region was found to be the appropriate donor site. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: This information on safe zone for graft harvest can guide the periodontist to make appropriate incisions and choose the appropriate location to obtain a graft of adequate thickness and dimensions.