When examining a clinical photo of a patient, you observe a gingival biotype that appears delicate with thin, translucent tissue and visible tooth roots. What is the gingival biotype?

Gingival biotype is classified as thin or thick (with some classifications including intermediate/average). A thin biotype is characterized by delicate, translucent tissue, narrow zones of keratinized gingiva, scalloped gingival margins, and a greater tendency toward gingival recession in response to trauma, inflammation, or restorative procedures. When a periodontal probe is placed in the sulcus, it is visible through the tissue. Patients with a thin biotype require more careful periodontal management as they are more susceptible to recession and have less tissue volume for surgical procedures.