Periodontics · single question
A patient has gingival recession near the lower labial frenum. Which of the following is NOT a contributing factor to this recession?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Plaque-induced gingivitis
Gingivitis (plaque-induced inflammation) causes swelling and bleeding — not recession. Recession is caused by mechanical forces and anatomical factors.
- A. Thin gingival biotype predisposes to recession because thin tissue over narrow attached gingiva dehisces more easily.
- B. CORRECT. Simple plaque-induced gingivitis does NOT cause recession. Recession results from mechanical forces (brushing, frenum pull), thin tissue biotype, and bony dehiscence. Note: chronic periodontitis can cause recession through attachment loss, but that is different from simple gingivitis.
- C. Aggressive toothbrushing is a major cause of gingival recession, particularly at labial surfaces of lower anteriors.
- D. High labial frenum attachment creates tension during lip movement that contributes to recession.