Gum recession – root coverage

Surgical coverage of exposed roots reduces sensitivity, improves the aesthetics of the smile and protects the roots. The outcome depends mainly on the bone and gum levels between the teeth.

What is gum recession?

Recession is the migration of the gum margin towards the root, exposing the root surface. Teeth look longer, the necks of the teeth are sensitive to cold and touch, and the root is more exposed to wear and decay.

Why does it happen?

  • excessive or incorrect brushing,
  • thin gum and thin bone on the outer side of the tooth (thin periodontal phenotype),
  • a tooth positioned outside the dental arch, or tooth movement during orthodontic treatment,
  • pull of the lip or cheek attachments (frenula),
  • periodontal disease with bone loss around the teeth.

Is root coverage possible in your case?

The key factor is the bone and gum between the teeth. Where there is no interdental attachment loss, the root can usually be covered completely. If some interdental bone has already been lost, coverage may only be partial, and with pronounced loss complete coverage cannot be achieved (Cairo classification of recessions, RT1–RT3).

With generalised periodontal disease we therefore treat the periodontal disease first. The options for root coverage are limited in such cases and are assessed only once the disease is stable.

Course of treatment

  1. Examination and diagnostics – we measure the depth and width of the recessions, gum thickness and periodontal pockets and assess the interdental bone, with an X-ray where needed.
  2. Addressing the cause – adjusting brushing technique, treating inflammation and, where needed, aligning the tooth before surgery, for example with Invisalign®.
  3. Surgical procedure – under local anaesthesia, using a microsurgical technique, the gum is advanced over the exposed root, usually together with a connective tissue graft that also thickens the gum.
  4. Healing and check-ups – after the procedure you receive written aftercare instructions; at check-ups we monitor healing and the stability of the result.

Why is it important to act in time?

Root coverage is most predictable with smaller recessions and preserved interdental bone. Progressing recession means more tissue lost and a less predictable result. If you notice your gums receding, book an examination.

Price

The price depends on the number of teeth, the technique used and the need for a graft. You will receive an exact price in a written plan after the examination. The first examination costs €60 (package with OPG and local X-rays €90); other prices are in our price list.

Who treats you

Cases

Before and after: gum recession coverage – Oasis Dental Ljubljana
Gum recession coverage
Before and after: recession coverage on the front teeth – Oasis Dental Ljubljana
Recession coverage on the front teeth
Before and after: gum recession coverage – Oasis Dental Ljubljana
Gum recession coverage

Frequently asked questions

Does the procedure hurt?

The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia. For a few days afterwards the treated area and the graft donor site on the palate may be tender, which is usually managed with painkillers.

Can the gum recede again?

If the causes, such as incorrect brushing and inflammation, are addressed, the result is stable in the long term. Thickened gum is more resistant to further recession.

Can an exposed root be covered with a filling?

A composite filling can cover a worn tooth neck and reduce sensitivity, but it does not restore the gum. Sometimes we combine both approaches.

Can recessions be covered in periodontitis?

With generalised periodontal disease and interdental bone loss, coverage is limited or not possible. The priority is treating the periodontal disease and preserving the teeth.

How long does healing take?

Initial healing takes about two weeks; the final gum contour settles over a few months.

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We usually reply within one working day. For urgent problems call +386 51 649 647.