Gingival recession classification –

Understanding & knowledge of the different stages & condition of gingival recession is necessary for predictable Root coverage.
Several classifications of denuded roots have been proposed.(gingival recession classification).

Sullivan & Atkins classification –

• In the 1960’s Sullivan & Atkins classified gingival recession into four MORPHOLOGIC categories –(gingival recession classification)

1. Shallow – narrow.
2. Shallow -wide.
3. Deep – narrow.
4. Deep – wide.
   • Advantages of Sullivan & Atkins classification –
     • Classification was helpful to better categorize the lesion.
     Drawback –
     This classification didn’t enable the clinician to predict the outcome of the therapy ( prognosis).

Miller’s classification –

• In the year 1985 Miller expanded Sullivan & Atkins classification so as to help the clinician to predict the outcome of the therapy.
• Miller classified into 4 classes.( Gingival recession classification)
• These are –

1. Class I:
   • In this category, the gingival recession does not extend to the mucogingival junction (MGJ), which is the border between the attached gingiva and the alveolar mucosa.
   • The tooth root is still fully covered, and there is no loss of supporting bone or tissues in the interdental area.
   • These types of recession can be narrow or wide.
2. Class II:
   • Gingival recession in this category extends to or beyond the MGJ .
   • There’s is no loss of bone or soft tissues in the interdental area.
   • These types of recession can be wide or narrow.
3. Class III:
   • This classification involves recession that extends beyond the MGJ .
   • Bone and / or soft tissues loss interdentally.
   • Tooth might be malposed because of bone loss.
4. Class IV:
   • This is the most severe category, where the gingival recession is extensive, involving multiple teeth, and often results in complete exposure of the tooth root.
   • There is substantial loss of supporting bone, and the prognosis may be compromised.

Classification based on extend of damage-( gingival recession classification)

A. Localised gingival recession
B. Generalized gingival recession

A. Localised recession –
localised recession in Periodontics refers to the recession or pulling back of gum tissue around a specific tooth or area in the mouth.

B. Generalized recession –
A generalized recession in periodontics refers to the condition where there is a significant loss of gum tissue or gums recede, revealing the roots of the teeth.

image source – carranza 9th edition.