A pathologic entity, the gingival fenestration, has been described. The lesion is seen infrequently in clinical practice, probably due to the short time span of its existence and the lack of acute symptoms. It is possible that it occurs with greater frequency than generally realized. A hypothesis is presented as to the method of formation of the gingival fenestration and it is suggested that the area should be treated as gingival recession extending to the apical border of the fenestration.