Palatal rugae are unique ridges on the roof of the mouth that vary among individuals and remain stable over time. They have been used for personal identification and pattern analysis in various fields. However because different researchers have used different classification systems the results have not always been consistent or reliable. This study aims to propose a new framework that integrates the strengths of existing systems to improve the standardization of palatal rugae analysis. To review previous studies on palatal rugae the keywords “palatal rugae” and “rugae pattern” were used to search databases such as PubMed for articles published up to April 2025. Both English and Korean papers were included if they proposed or applied classification systems for palatal rugae. Seven major classification criteria were reviewed and compared in terms of length, shape, direction, analytical methods, and application purposes. The review found that the criteria used in previous studies were not consistent and the definitions of key terms varied among authors. To address these issues a new guideline was developed by selecting the strengths of each existing system. The proposed framework clarifies the length categories, simplifies the shape classification, and organizes detailed items in a systematic way to reduce ambiguity and improve the consistency of palatal rugae analysis. This study is expected to enhance the standardization of palatal rugae analysis and contribute to future research and clinical applications in various fields.

• 김나희(전남대학교 치의학전문대학원 구강병리학교실, 나주대학교 치위생과) | Nahee Kim (Department of Oral Pathology, School of Dentistry, Chonnam National University, Department of Dental Hygiene, NAJU College)
• Wang Weiyi(전남대학교 치의학전문대학원 구강병리학교실)
• 함주희(전남대학교 치의학전문대학원 구강병리학교실) | Juhee Ham (Department of Oral Pathology, School of Dentistry, Chonnam National University)
• Liu Xinzhu(전남대학교 치의학전문대학원 구강병리학교실) | Xinzhu Liu (Department of Oral Pathology, School of Dentistry, Chonnam National University)
• 강재석(전남대학교 치의학전문대학원 구강병리학교실) | Jae-Seok Kang (Department of Oral Pathology, School of Dentistry, Chonnam National University)
• 김옥준(전남대학교 치의학전문대학원 구강병리학교실) | Okjoon Kim (Department of Oral Pathology, School of Dentistry, Chonnam National University) Corresponding author