Which surface condition around dental prosthetics is most associated with an inflammatory response due to plaque accumulation?

• A. Rough surfaces
• B. Smooth surfaces
• C. Open margins
• D. Sealed margins

Answer: (C)

Marginal integrity around dental prosthetics dictates how easily plaque-biofilm can gather at the prosthesis-tissue interface. When margins are open, there is a gap between the prosthesis and the tooth or implant that serves as a niche for plaque to accumulate and persist. This sustained bacterial presence delivers inflammatory stimuli, like bacterial endotoxins and host cytokines, to the surrounding gingival or peri-implant tissues, triggering an inflammatory response.

While rough surfaces do tend to harbor more plaque than smooth ones, the key factor driving inflammation in this scenario is the open margin allowing plaque ingress and retention. Sealed margins minimize this risk by eliminating the gap, making plaque removal more effective and reducing inflammatory irritation. So, the surface condition most associated with plaque-driven inflammation around prosthetics is open margins.