Gum recession is a common oral health issue that involves the apical migration of the gum margin, exposing the root surface of the tooth. While often unnoticed in early stages, it can lead to both cosmetic and functional problems.
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✅ What Is Gum Recession?
Gum recession refers to the progressive loss of gum tissue surrounding the teeth, resulting in visible root surfaces. It may affect a single tooth or multiple teeth. The Cairo classification (2011) is currently the most widely used clinical system to describe its severity and predict treatment outcomes.
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Gum recession is multifactorial, and its most common causes include:
1. Aggressive Toothbrushing
° Using excessive force or horizontal scrubbing
° Hard-bristled toothbrushes or abrasive toothpaste
2. Periodontal Disease
° Chronic inflammation and destruction of connective tissue
° Bone loss and periodontal pockets
3. Tooth Misalignment
° Teeth positioned outside the bone housing
° Orthodontic movement without periodontal planning
4. High Frenum Attachment or Muscle Pulls
° Mechanical interference in the attached gingiva
5. Thin Gingival Biotype
° Thin gums are more prone to trauma and retraction
6. Smoking and Oral Piercings
° Chronic irritation and reduced blood supply to the gums
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If left untreated, gum recession can lead to:
° Tooth sensitivity (especially to cold or brushing)
° Root surface cavities
° Progressive periodontal attachment loss
° Cosmetic concerns (exposed roots, black triangles)
° Difficulties with oral hygiene
° Emotional distress related to smile aesthetics
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1. Addressing Traumatic Habits
° Patient education on non-traumatic brushing techniques
° Using soft or ultra-soft brushes and non-abrasive toothpaste
2. Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy
° Scaling and root planing (SRP) in cases involving inflammation
° Regular plaque control and maintenance visits
3. Mucogingival Surgery (Advanced Regenerative Techniques)
° Subepithelial connective tissue graft (CTG) – gold standard
° Free gingival graft (FGG) – for increasing keratinized tissue
° Tunnel technique with biomaterials – minimally invasive approach
° Acellular dermal matrix grafts – alternative to autogenous tissue
° Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) – improves healing and outcomes
4. Orthodontic Treatment
° Indicated in cases where misaligned teeth contribute to recession
° Requires coordination between orthodontists and periodontists
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° Always assess gum thickness and attachment level before starting restorative or orthodontic treatments.
° Educate patients on proper brushing methods and tools.
° Avoid hard bristles, abrasive pastes, or alcohol-based rinses.
° Perform routine periodontal evaluations to catch early signs.
° Refer to a periodontist when aesthetics or severe root exposure are involved.
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Video 🔽 What is the treatment of receding gums? ... The dentist must identify the causative agent, and then perform the treatment because it is periodontal surgery. The specialist should instruct the patient on his brushing technique so that he can avoid further injury to his gums.💬 Discussion
Gum recession is often underestimated in dental practice but plays a crucial role in both periodontal health and aesthetics. In 2025, surgical techniques have evolved significantly, offering less invasive procedures with better cosmetic results. Technologies such as PRF and biomimetic materials have improved predictability and healing.
That said, the foundation of long-term success lies in identifying and addressing the underlying causes—especially traumatic brushing or anatomical predispositions. Without this, even the most advanced grafting procedures are likely to fail.
💡 Conclusion
Gum recession is more than a cosmetic issue—it can compromise oral health and patient well-being. Effective treatment depends on the proper diagnosis, behavioral modification, and—in many cases—advanced periodontal surgery. Preventive care and patient education remain key to managing this condition successfully.
References
✔ Cairo, F., Pagliaro, U., & Nieri, M. (2011). Treatment of gingival recession with coronally advanced flap procedures: a systematic review. Journal of Clinical Periodontology, 35(Suppl 8), 136–162. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1600-051X.2008.01267.x
✔ Chambrone, L., Tatakis, D. N., & Romanelli, H. C. (2018). Root coverage procedures for the treatment of localized recession-type defects: An updated Cochrane systematic review. Journal of Periodontology, 89(7), 760–778. https://doi.org/10.1002/JPER.16-0805
✔ Pini Prato, G. P., Franceschi, D., Cortellini, P., & Chambrone, L. (2020). Mucogingival surgery for the treatment of multiple gingival recessions: A systematic review. Periodontology 2000, 84(1), 315–338. https://doi.org/10.1111/prd.12344
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