The role of coronal contour in gingival health.

1. Total clinical crown contour is related to gingival health. 2. The subgingival convexity of a tooth or a restoration should extend facially or lingually no more than one half of the thickness of the gingiva. This protects the gingival crevice and promotes a knifelike free gingival margin, important in plaque control. 3. The facial and lingual surface contours should have gradual curvatures in all directions to facilitate the rubbing and cleaning function of the lips, cheeks, and tongue. 4. The interproximal contour of adjacent teeth, of the tooth contact areas, and of the teeth in relation to the gingival papilla must be such that moving tissues can rub or the patient can perform oral hygiene easily. The requirements may vary depending on the degree of gingival recession and cosmetic needs. 5. Undercontour is better than overcontour where clinical judgment is vague.