Incidence of Gingival Recessions in Adolescent Orthodontic Patients Treated With Fixed Appliances and Lingual Retainer.

AIM

To evaluate risk indicators for gingival recessions (GRs) in the lower anterior teeth of orthodontic patients post treatment and during a retention period of at least 5 years, compared to non-treated controls.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Eighty-nine orthodontically treated patients who were recession-free before treatment were recruited. Demographic, cephalometric and occlusal records were retrieved before (T1) and after treatment (T2), and periodontal outcomes were clinically evaluated at least 5 years post retention (T3). Eighty-eight non-treated patients served as controls. Recession areas were digitally assessed and compared using t-test and chi-square tests, and a multiple linear regression model was built.

RESULTS

In the treated group, recession incidence was 11.24% at T2 and 67.42% at T3, all classified as type 1, class A (-). Among controls, recession prevalence was 15.91%, similar to the incidence at T2, but significantly lower than at T3. GR was most common in canines (1.85 mm; 95% CI: 2.61-7.70; p < 0.005). Regression analysis identified higher incidence of recessions in female patients and in those with thin phenotype, high angle skeletal pattern, increased final inclination of lower incisors and greater probing depth.

CONCLUSIONS

GR incidence after orthodontic treatment was comparable to controls but increased significantly post retention. Several risk indicators may predict GR occurrence.