Gingival Recessions - Pathogenesis and Prognosis: A Literature Review

One of the tasks of mucogingival surgery is the prevention and treatment of gingival recessions. Gingival recessions do not lead to tooth loss, but are considered an aesthetic problem and plaque retention factor. Gingival recessions are frequently related to functional problems associated with plaque retention, dentinal hypersensitivity, root exposure, carious and non-carious lesions, alveolar bone loss, and aesthetic shortcoming. The most important prognostic factor for the treatment of gingival recessions is the height of the interproximal supporting periodontal tissues. Successful correction of mucogingival conditions requires a detailed understanding of the etiology and pathogenesis of gingival recessions, because the treating of recessions without addressing the underlying cause can compromise results. The purpose of this study was to provide a literature review of the pathogenesis and prognosis of gingival recessions and to highlight the main etiopathogenetic factors and clinical findings to assist clinicians in their treatment.