Abstract
Background and aims. Gingival recession (GR), a common problem in periodontium, is associated with various etiologic
factors. There is controversy over the role and importance of these factors. The aim of this study was to evaluate the etiologic
factors of GR in a group of subjects in Northwest Iran.
Materials and methods. In this case-control study, patients referring to a university clinic (123 patients with GR and 123
patients without GR) were evaluated. Patients were examined by an experienced periodontist. A checklist assessing the history
of systemic disease, smoking, radiotherapy, orthodontic treatment, chemical and mechanical trauma, tooth-brushing method,
type of occlusion, axial inclination of tooth, width and thickness of keratinized gingiva, presence of calculus, prosthesis, faulty
restorations and food impaction, and frenum pull was completed for each patient. Chi-square test was used for data analysis.
Results. Presence of calculus was significantly associated with GR in the evaluated patients (P = 0.000). Low width and
thickness of keratinized gingiva, smoking and traumatic tooth brushing were other significant factors (P < 0.05). The type of
occlusion, axial inclination of teeth, existence of prosthesis, high frenal attachment, radiotherapy, systemic diseases and chemical
trauma were not significantly associated with GR in the evaluated patients (P > 0.05).
Conclusions. Supra- and sub-gingival calculus, inadequate width and thickness of keratinized tissue, and incorrect tooth
brushing techniques are most important etiologic factors of GR. Oral hygiene instructions including correct tooth brushing
techniques as well as scaling and root planing with periodic recalls can play a significant role in prevention of GR.