Introduction: Palato-gingival groove is a developmental anomaly which usually begins in the central fossa of the incisor, extends over the cingulum and then continues apically down the root surface. It acts as a plaque retentive site which can lead to endodontic or periodontal disease or combined periodontal-endodontic disease. Treatment is based on complete eradication of microbes from the groove.
Objective: To diagnose and manage palato-gingival groove.
Methodology: A 32-year-old, systemically healthy female reported to the Department of Periodontology, PGIDS, Rohtak, with a chief complaint of dirty teeth. On clinical examination, probing depths at all sites were in range of 2-3mm except the maxillary right lateral incisor, where the disto-palatal aspect revealed 7mm probing depth. Intraoral peri-apical radiograph revealed an isolated bone defect associated with the distal aspect of the lateral incisor. A palato-gingival groove extending to the junction of the coronal and middle third of the mid root was evident after raising the periodontal flap. Debridement of the defect, followed by preparation of the groove with a round bur and restoration with glass ionomer cement was done.
Result: At 6 months follow-up, the probing depth reduced from 7 mm to 2mm; the gain in CAL was 5mm, and BOP was absent.
Conclusion: Eradication of microbes and sealing the groove are successful in the management of a palato-gingival groove.
Keywords: Dental plaque, glass ionomer cement
