Does a temperature gradient exist across the mucogingival junction?

On the assumption that the colour difference between attached gingiva and alveolar mucosa is accompanied by a temperature difference, twenty subjects with a high standard of oral health were studied. Five points on either side of the mucogingival junction were examined by means of a thermocouple probe. A mean difference amounting to about 2/3 degrees C was found between the surface temperatures of the two structures.