Classification of Gingival Recession:
- Millers classification system
- Kumar & Masamattis classification system
- Separate classification system for palatal recessions
- New comprehensive classification system based on position of interdental papilla and recessions
Causes of Gingival Recession:
- Gum disease (periodontal disease)
- Overaggressive brushing
- Improper flossing
- Hereditary factors
- Habits like tobacco use or self-inflicted trauma
Symptoms of Gingival Recession:
- Progressive condition occurring gradually
- Tooth mobility
- Dentin hypersensitivity
- Teeth appearing longer due to receding gums
- Exposed and visible tooth roots
Treatment Options for Gingival Recession:
- Gum grafting procedures performed by a periodontist
- Different techniques such as pedicle graft or free gingival graft
- Use of acellular dermal matrix as an alternative to patient's own tissue
- Completed under local anesthesia
- Healing time of 2-4 weeks
Growth-Factor Techniques for Gingival Recession Treatment:
- Introduction of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) infused bone graft material
- Combined with cellular matrix for osseointegration
- Healing time of 2-4 weeks
- Minor reshaping of new tissue may be necessary
- Complete or near complete coverage of recession area achieved without bone loss.
Gingival recession, also known as gum recession and receding gums, is the exposure in the roots of the teeth caused by a loss of gum tissue and/or retraction of the gingival margin from the crown of the teeth. Gum recession is a common problem in adults over the age of 40, but it may also occur starting in adolescence, or around the age of 10. It may exist with or without concomitant decrease in crown-to-root ratio (recession of alveolar bone).
