Prevalence, etiology, and contemporary treatment of gingival recession: An updated review

Abstract

Introduction: From a clinical and economic standpoint, the treatment of gingival recession involves surgical regenerative therapies and periodontal maintenance, which represents a significant burden for patients and oral health services. Objective: To analyze recent literature on gingival recession in order to determine its prevalence, etiology, modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors, and therapeutic and preventive approaches used in its clinical management. Methodology: The review was conducted in PubMed, SCOPUS, and Google Scholar, using terms such as gingival recession, prevalence, risk factors, periodontal disease, and gingival biotype. Systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and high-impact studies from the last 5 years were included. Results: Prevalence is high (up to 81% for recessions ≥1 mm) and increases with age. Key non-modifiable factors are thin gingival biotype and bone architecture. Modifiable factors include traumatic brushing, smoking, and poor plaque control, all of which accelerate progression, especially with periodontitis. Treatment focuses on surgical techniques with connective tissue grafts, achieving high rates of root coverage (90-96%), with strict supportive follow-up. Conclusion: Gingival recession is a common and multifactorial condition, dependent on non-modifiable anatomical factors and modifiable lifestyle habits. Educational intervention and the use of comprehensive treatments, including surgery and follow-up, are essential to achieve long-term functional and aesthetic stability.