Why there is scarless wound healing in gums?

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After dental extractions and other procedures, why there is no scarring of gingiva?

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Various reasons have been suggested for minimal scarring in the oral cavity, including distinct fibroblast phenotype, the presence of bacteria that stimulate wound healing and the moist environment and growth factors present in saliva. Animal lovers know that their pets like to lick their wounds, and animal studies have shown that licking and saliva application enhance skin wound healing and reduce inflammation. This effect of saliva is attributed mainly to its relatively high concentration of epidermal growth factor (EGF), and topical use of artificial saliva has been suggested as a treatment for skin burn wounds.

Source: http://www.jcda.ca/uploads/b18/b18.pdf

answered Apr 15, 2013 by admin Doctor of Medicine (9,909 points)