Gingival Recession
The apical migration of the gingival margin away from the cementoenamel junction, resulting in exposure of the root surface.
Full Definition
Gingival recession describes the displacement of the gingival margin in an apical direction relative to the cementoenamel junction (CEJ), leaving the root surface exposed to the oral environment. It may be localised (affecting one or a few teeth) or generalised (affecting multiple teeth across the dentition). Common aetiologies include aggressive tooth brushing, periodontal disease, orthodontic tooth movement, and thin gingival biotype. Recession is measured in millimetres from the CEJ to the gingival margin. Editors should be alert to correct directional terminology—'apical' not 'downward'—and should not conflate recession with bone loss, which is a distinct but related finding.
Usage
Usage note: Always state the measurement in mm and specify the tooth surface affected. Avoid the colloquial phrase 'gums pulling back' in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "Gingival recession of 3 mm was noted on the buccal surface of tooth #6, with root sensitivity reported by the patient." — Clinical examination record
- "The continuing education article explored the relationship between orthodontic treatment and gingival recession in adolescent patients." — Dental journal article