Prevalence And Potential Risk Indicators Of Gingival Recessions And Dental Patient Perception In A Young Population

Abstract

Background: Gingival recession (GR) is a common manifestation in most populations, and is considered as an early sign of periodontal disease. GR is an intriguing condition where various factors play an important role in its etiology. Only few studies have been undertaken to assess the prevalence and risk factors for GR in patients visiting dental hospitals.  The study aims: To determine the prevalence, extent, severity, and distribution of gingival recessions and patient perception in a young population and to identify potential risk indicators.  Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in dental clinics at Makkah, KSA from January to May 2022. Two hundred fifty-one with a mean age of 22.9 ± 4.7, attending the Dentistry and Dental Hygiene were included. The subjects had undergone a clinical evaluation, by two calibrated examiner, and a questionnaire. Demographic and clinical data were collected to evaluate association of these factors with gingival recessions. Results: The prevalence of gingival recessions at patient and tooth level was 39% and 5.2%, respectively. The only factor associated with the presence of GR was age. On the other hand, age and smoking were associated with the extent, whereas BOP, NCCLs and KT were associated with the severity. Out of 98 subjects presenting at least one GR, 63 (64%) were conscious of the presence of the GR. NCCLs were also strongly associated with the perception of the recession by the patient. Conclusions: There is a low prevalence of buccal gingival recessions in this sample. More than 50% of the sample was aware of the problem. Almost all patients presenting symptomatology or aesthetic concern requested appropriate therapy. The findings highlight the low relevance of gingival recessions in daily practice and the importance of controlling potential risk indicators in young populations.