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Dentistry vocabulary · Gums and Oral Hygiene

Gingival recession

Meaning in dentistry, with examples

nounCommon term

In dentistry, gingival recession means: Shrinking back of the gum from the tooth, which exposes part of the root. It can be caused by gum disease, brushing too hard or thin gum tissue.

In Turkish: diş eti çekilmesi, gingival çekilme

How it is used

Patients say receding gums or 'my teeth look longer'. Dentists measure recession in millimeters and may refer the patient for a gum graft. It often leads to sensitivity and root caries.

Example sentences

  1. There's 3 mm of gingival recession on the lower canine.

  2. Brushing too hard can contribute to gingival recession.

Common collocations

  • gingival recession
  • receding gums
  • recession defect
  • gum graft
  • gumThe firm pink tissue that covers the jawbone and fits tightly around the neck of each tooth. The technical word is gingiva.
  • tooth sensitivityShort, sharp pain in a tooth when it meets cold, heat, sweet food or air, usually because dentin has been exposed by gum recession or wear.
  • periodontitisA serious gum disease in which infection destroys the bone and tissues that hold the teeth. Pockets form, teeth may loosen, and lost bone does not grow back by itself.
  • mobilityMovement of a tooth in its socket. A tiny amount is normal, but increased mobility can be a sign of bone loss, infection or injury.

More terms: Gums and Oral Hygiene

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This page explains English vocabulary for learners. It is not medical advice.