Prevalence and risk indicators of gingival recessions in an Italian school of dentistry and dental hygiene: a cross-sectional study

Objectives: The aim of this cross-sectional study is to (i) determine the prevalence, extent, severity, and distribution of gingival recessions and patient perception in a young population and (ii) to identify potential risk indicators. Material and methods: Two hundred fifty-one students with a mean age of 22.9 ± 4.7, attending the School of Dentistry and Dental Hygiene of Vita-Salute San Raffaele University (Milan, Italy) 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 of Italian students. More than 50% of the sample was aware of the problem. Almost all patients presenting symptomatology or aesthetic concern requested appropriate therapy. Clinical relevance: The findings highlight the low relevance of gingival recessions in daily practice and the importance of controlling potential risk indicators in young populations.