Author-Dr Aparna Pandya (Mrs India Vivacious 2019)

Gingival recession occurs as a result of gingival tissue moves away from the cement enamel junction as a result of which exposing the roots underneath. This may occur due to a number of reasons such as brushing too hard, smoking and genetics. This condition is more common in older individuals as compared to younger individuals.

Gingival recession occurs due to a number of reasons such as

• Brushing too hard or too aggressively.
• Dental plaque or tartar buildup.
• Periodontal disease.
• Trauma or injury to your gum tissue.
• Abnormal tooth positioning (malalignment).
• Smoking or chewing tobacco use.
• Lip and tongue piercings.

Diagnosis

A thorough routine examination is very critical in diagnosing gingival recession. A periodontal probe maybe used to determine the amount of tissue loss in individual tooth. Bone loss is common issue in areas of where gum recession is reported. Hence it is crucial to measure the periodontal pockets around each tooth. Periodontal pockets that measure 0-3mm are considered to be healthy whereas it is seen that around 4mm denotes gingivitis and more than 5.5mm is considered to be cases with periodontal involvement.

MANAGEMENT AND TREATMENT

Pain and sensitivity are common concerns in areas of gingival recession due to over exposure of cementum. Application of fluoride varnish may reduce discomfort assosciated with receding gums. Usage of desensitizing toothpaste like potassium nitrate, stannous fluoride, arginine and strontium chloride can help ease discomfort.

Nonsurgical treatments

Nonsurgical treatments for gum recession may include:

• Topical antibiotics.
• Dental bonding. 
• Orthodontics. .

Surgical intervention

Graft surgery is the gold standard treatment option for such cases.

In this approach, the periodontist uses a graft retrieved from the palate either from the same individual or from a healthy donor which is then attached to the site and sutured into position.

The time taken for the recovery depends on the number of teeth that were treated, the type of graft, the type of procedure etc. Roughly in around 2 weeks healing takes place and patient will be less uncomfortable.

PREVENTION

• Brush your teeth thoroughly twice every day.
• Floss once daily.
• Use an antimicrobial mouthwash twice daily.
• Follow your dentist’s recommendation for teeth cleanings. It is highly suggested to get a professional scaling every 6 months to keep the oral hygiene condition pit and pat.
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Don’t smoke or use chewing tobacco.

PROGNOSIS

In case of mild gingival recession cases, non-surgical intervention will work well but if there is severe recession, in these cases it would be helpful to go for a surgical approach to attain remarkable results.

It is important to note that recession can’t be cured fully however if treated at the right time one can most likely prevent the deterioration of the situation and prevent further tissue loss and thereby tooth loss.