title: Gingival pigmentation index proposal of a new index with a brief review of current indices.
abstract: Cosmetic expectations have increased with time and current trends speak volumes about gingival esthetics and smile designing. Gingival pigmentation especially on the labial aspect of anterior teeth has become an important component of general esthetics. Various physiologic and pathologic factors cause gingival pigmentation. The existing indices do not deal with the etiology, extent and severity of gingival pigmentation. Hence, we propose a new classification and index for gingival pigmentation to assess the treatment needs for the patient.
authors: Department of Periodontology and Oral Implantology, Faculty of Dentistry, Sebha University, Sebha, Libya.
authors: Syed Wali
authors: SW
authors: Peeran
authors: Department of Oral Pathology and Oral Microbiology, Faculty of Dentistry, Sebha University, Sebha, Libya.
authors: Karthikeyan
authors: K
authors: Ramalingam
authors: Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Prosthetics, Faculty of Dentistry, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia.
authors: Syed Ali
authors: SA
authors: Peeran
authors: Department of Oral Surgery, Faculty of Dentistry, Sebha University, Sebha, Libya.
authors: Omar Basheer
authors: OB
authors: Altaher
authors: Faculty of Dentistry, Sebha University, Sebha, Libya.
authors: Fatma Mojtaba
authors: FM
authors: Alsaid
authors: Department of Periodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Benghazi University, Benghazi, Libya.
authors: Marei Hamed
authors: MH
authors: Mugrabi
keywords: Gingival melanin pigmentation; gingival pigmentation index; gingival pigmented lesions; melanin index; physiological gingival pigmentation