Recognition and management of palatogingival groove for tooth survival: a literature review

Abstract

Palatogingival groove (PGG) is an anomaly in the maxillary anterior teeth, often accompanied by the area of bony destruction adjacent to the teeth with no carious or traumatic history. The hidden trap in the tooth can harbor plaque and bacteria, resulting in periodontal destruction with or without pulpal pathologic change. Related diseases can involve periodontal destruction, combined endodontic-periodontal lesions, or separate endodontic and periodontal lesions. Disease severity and prognosis related to PGG depend on several factors, including location, range, depth, and type of the groove. Several materials have been used and recommended for cases of extensive periodontal destruction from PGG to remove and block the inflammatory source and recover the health of surrounding periodontal tissues. Even in cases of severe periodontal destruction, several studies have reported favorable treatment outcomes with proper management. With new options in diagnosis and treatment, clinicians need a detailed understanding of the characteristics, treatment, and prognosis of PGG to successfully manage the condition.