The interdental space.

There is a close relationship between the contact, contour, and shape of the teeth that creates the interproximal space with the help of the interdental gingiva. The interdental gingiva, composed of the facial and lingual papillae and the col, is a unique area anatomically and histologically. The high incidence of caries and periodontal disease in the interproximal area is partially the result of this histologic and anatomic make-up and the great accumulation of bacterial plaque. In restorative dentistry, it is important to recreate an interproximal area that will minimize a long facial-lingual col area, provide adequate space for interdental gingiva, minimize food impaction and retention, and allow for ease in plaque removal by the patient.