26 November 2022

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Patients' perception of gingival recession, impact on quality of life

Lara Figini

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Gingival recession has a complex and multifactorial etiology, affects more than 50% of the population, can present with or without symptoms and is characterized by exposure of the root surface through apical migration of the gingival margin beyond the enamel-cement junction. It is a frequent clinical condition, which can be localized or generalized and can appear in populations with different socioeconomic characteristics and high and low standards of oral hygiene. However, most patients may not be aware of having recessions, as they often present as asymptomatic. Treating gingival recessions (GRs) aims not only to rehabilitate the aesthetic appearance but also to eliminate the symptoms of the recession itself, such as thermal hypersensitivity.

Materials and methods

In a study published in Acta Odontologica Scandinavica in August 2020, the authors assessed patients' awareness of their gingival recessions, the impact on quality of life in relation to oral health and modality of acceptance treatment suggested by the patient.
This cross-sectional study involved 205 patients.

Clinicians conducted a complete examination of the mouth and recorded clinical parameters. Gum recessions and related complaints were evaluated, and treatments suggested for patients. The examiner also recorded whether the patient accepted the proposed treatment. Patients completed an oral health-related quality of life questionnaire (OHRQoL-UK) regarding their GRs. Data were analyzed with independent t test and Mann - Whitney U test.

Results

Nearly 150 patients, 4,819 teeth and 733 GR were examined. Fifty-seven patients were unaware of having gum recessions. More than 88% of patients expressed a strong belief that GRs have some impact on oral health and that GRs progress (86%). Non-invasive modalities were preferred if patients had complaints.

The results revealed that hypersensitivity reduces OHRQoL-UK scores, as does aesthetic issues.

Conclusions

From the data of this study, the authors concluded that patients may not realize they have gum recessions and that factors related to GR may lead to poorer OHRQoL.

Clinical implications

Dental professionals should consider a perspective for improving patients’ gingival recession awareness as well as focusing on its treatment. Enhancing periodontal health by means of the therapies to eliminate gingival recession related complaints might have broader affects than expected.

Merve Yılmaz, Bahar Füsun Oduncuoğlu, Mediha Nur Nişancı Yılmaz. "Evaluation of patients' perception of gingival recession, its impact on oral health-related quality of life, and acceptance of treatment plan." Acta Odontol Scand. 2020 Aug; 78 (6): 454-462. DOI: 10.1080/00016357.2020.1758773