The Dental Hygienist’s Role in Treating Gingival Recession

By Adam E. Saltz, DMD, MS, MPH, and Victoria Sirois, RDH

A lack of attached, keratinized tissue and gingival recession are the most common soft tissue conditions encountered by the dental team. In fact, 50% to 80% of adults present with at least one site of recession. Exposed root surfaces compromise esthetics and function, leading to an unfortunate sequela of dentinal hypersensitivity, caries, noncarious cervical lesions, and/or impaired plaque control. If these defects are not treated aptly, they can worsen and complicate future surgical, restorative, or orthodontic treatment. The surgical approach is unique to each patient and differs by etiology of the condition, oral hygiene compliance, and other risk factors. Dental hygienists need to understand preventive and maintenance practices to prevent and manage gingival recession.

* References can be found in the original article via the link below.
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