Gingival Recession in Orthodontics: A Review

By clinical definition, gingival recession refers to the exposure of the root surface by an apical shift in the position of the gingiva. Recession is important because it can lead to poor esthetics, tooth hypersensitivity, loss of periodontal support, difficulties in maintenance of oral hygiene, and increased susceptibility to caries. Although its etiology is not fully understood, periodontal disease and mechanical trauma are considered the primary factors in the pathogenesis of gingival recession. Orthodontic treatment might also promote the development of gingival recessions. It has been well established that orthodontic forces can move roots close to or through the alveolar cortical plates, leading to bone dehiscence. In such instances, the marginal gingiva, without proper alveolar bone support, might be expected to migrate apically and lead to root exposure. This assumption is based on the fact that in areas of recession, a subjacent alveolar bone dehiscence is always present.