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Gingival Recession: Clinical Examination and Diagnostics

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Gingival Recession Management

Abstract

This chapter offers a practical approach to the diagnostic process in everyday dental practice. Gingival recessions are highly prevalent, and presence and extent increase with age.

When regression of the gingival margin is noticed, a structured diagnostic process of information gathering should be initiated. As gingival recessions might have several aetiologies, it is of utmost importance for the practitioner to be able to compile anamnestic, clinical, and radiologic signs and symptoms, as well as laboratory information. This process allows for differential diagnoses of possible underlying reasons and the decision-making in respect to future treatment options or necessities. The assessment of tissue dimensions is necessary to qualify, quantify, and monitor changes during periodontal, restorative, prosthetic, orthodontic, or implant therapy or lifelong maintenance. The practitioner shall be enabled to recognize underlying predisposing and precipitating causes for gingival recessions, evaluate possible risk factors, assess potential for progression, and build a solid base for further decision-making.

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Correspondence to Corinna Bruckmann M.D., M.Sc. .

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Bruckmann, C., Wimmer, G. (2018). Gingival Recession: Clinical Examination and Diagnostics. In: Kasaj, A. (eds) Gingival Recession Management. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-70719-8_4

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-70719-8_4

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  • Publisher Name: Springer, Cham

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