Prevalence of Tissue Biotype in Patients Reporting to 21 MDC Combined Military Hospital Quetta

Abstract

Background: Gingival biotype, defined by the morphological thickness of gingival tissue, significantly influences periodontal, restorative, and prosthodontic treatment outcomes. Variations in biotype affect the risk of soft-tissue recession, aesthetic harmony, and healing response. Although studies have evaluated gingival biotype distribution in different regions of Pakistan, there has been no investigation in Balochistan, where environmental and genetic diversity may influence gingival morphology. Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of gingival tissue biotypes among patients reporting to the Prosthodontic Department of 21 MDC, Combined Military Hospital (CMH) Quetta, and to assess the association between gingival biotype and gender. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted from February to June 2025, including 407 participants aged 18 years and above. Gingival thickness was assessed using the probe transparency method with a UNC-15 periodontal probe at the mid-facial aspect of the maxillary central incisor. Participants were categorized as having either a thin or thick biotype. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21. Descriptive statistics were applied, and associations were evaluated with Chi-square tests, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Of 407 participants, 218 (53.6%) were males and 189 (46.4%) females, with a mean age of 33.9 ± 11.2 years. The thin biotype was predominant (56.8%), while 43.2% exhibited a thick biotype. Gender showed a significant association with biotype (χ² = 4.84, p = 0.028), with males having a higher prevalence of thick biotype (52.8%) and females predominantly thin (67.7%). No significant association was found between age and biotype (p = 0.573). Conclusion: Thin gingival biotype predominates among patients in Quetta, with a significant gender-based variation favoring thicker tissues in males. These findings highlight the importance of assessing gingival biotype during clinical planning to minimize recession risk and optimize aesthetic and functional outcomes.