ICD-10: K06.022

Generalized gingival recession, moderate, is classified under the ICD-10 code K06.022. This condition refers to the loss of gum tissue around the teeth, which can lead to increased sensitivity and other dental issues. Understanding alternative names and related terms can help in better communication among healthcare providers and in patient education.

Alternative Names for Generalized Gingival Recession

1. Gingival Recession: This is a broader term that encompasses any loss of gum tissue, not limited to the generalized form.
2. Receding Gums: A common layman's term used to describe the condition where the gums pull away from the teeth.
3. Gingival Atrophy: This term refers to the thinning or loss of gum tissue, which can be a more technical way to describe the condition.
4. Periodontal Recession: This term emphasizes the relationship between gum recession and periodontal disease, which can be a contributing factor.

Related Terms

1. Periodontal Disease: A broader category that includes various conditions affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth, which can lead to gingival recession.
2. Gingivitis: Inflammation of the gums that can precede more severe forms of gum disease, potentially leading to recession.
3. Root Exposure: This term describes the condition where the roots of the teeth become visible due to gum recession, often leading to sensitivity.
4. Dental Sensitivity: A common symptom associated with gingival recession, where exposed tooth roots can lead to discomfort when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods.

Clinical Context

In clinical practice, understanding these terms is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. For instance, when discussing treatment options for K06.022, dental professionals may refer to related conditions like periodontal disease or gingivitis, as these can influence the management of gingival recession. Additionally, patient education often involves explaining the implications of terms like "receding gums" and "root exposure," which can help patients understand their condition better and encourage them to seek timely treatment.

In summary, recognizing the alternative names and related terms for generalized gingival recession can enhance communication in dental care settings and improve patient understanding of their oral health conditions.

Generalized gingival recession, classified under ICD-10 code K06.022, is a dental condition characterized by the apical migration of the gingival margin, leading to exposure of the tooth roots. This condition can have various clinical presentations, signs, symptoms, and patient characteristics that are important for diagnosis and management.

Clinical Presentation

Definition and Overview

Generalized gingival recession refers to the condition where the gum tissue surrounding the teeth recedes, exposing more of the tooth surface and potentially the root. The "moderate" classification indicates a significant level of recession that may require clinical intervention.

Signs

• Visible Recession: The most apparent sign is the visible loss of gum tissue, which can be assessed visually during a dental examination.
• Root Exposure: The roots of the teeth may become exposed, leading to changes in tooth color and texture.
• Inflammation: There may be signs of inflammation in the surrounding gingival tissue, including redness and swelling.
• Pocket Depth: Probing may reveal increased pocket depths, although this can vary depending on the individual’s oral hygiene and other factors.

Symptoms

• Sensitivity: Patients often report increased sensitivity to temperature changes, particularly cold, due to exposed dentin.
• Discomfort: Some individuals may experience discomfort or pain in the affected areas, especially when consuming certain foods or beverages.
• Aesthetic Concerns: Many patients express concerns about the appearance of their teeth, particularly if the recession is pronounced.

Patient Characteristics

Demographics

• Age: Gingival recession can occur at any age but is more prevalent in adults, particularly those over 30 years old.
• Gender: Some studies suggest that males may be more affected than females, although this can vary based on individual risk factors.

Risk Factors

• Oral Hygiene Practices: Poor oral hygiene can lead to periodontal disease, which is a significant risk factor for gingival recession.
• Tobacco Use: Smoking and other forms of tobacco use are associated with increased risk due to their impact on gum health.
• Genetic Predisposition: A family history of periodontal disease may increase susceptibility to gingival recession.
• Hormonal Changes: Conditions such as pregnancy or menopause can influence gum health and may contribute to recession.
• Mechanical Factors: Aggressive brushing techniques or the use of hard-bristled toothbrushes can contribute to tissue loss.

Associated Conditions

• Periodontal Disease: Patients with a history of periodontal disease are at a higher risk for gingival recession.
• Malocclusion: Misalignment of teeth can lead to uneven forces on the gums, contributing to recession.
• Systemic Conditions: Certain systemic diseases, such as diabetes, can affect gum health and increase the risk of recession.

Conclusion

Generalized gingival recession, moderate (ICD-10 code K06.022), presents with distinct clinical signs and symptoms that can significantly impact a patient's oral health and quality of life. Understanding the characteristics of affected patients, including demographic factors and risk profiles, is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment planning. Regular dental check-ups and proper oral hygiene practices are essential in managing and preventing further recession.

Generalized gingival recession, classified under ICD-10 code K06.022, refers to the condition where the gum tissue surrounding the teeth recedes, exposing more of the tooth or the tooth's root. This condition can lead to various dental issues, including sensitivity, increased risk of decay, and aesthetic concerns. The diagnosis of generalized gingival recession involves several criteria, which are typically assessed through clinical examination and patient history.

Diagnostic Criteria for Generalized Gingival Recession

1. Clinical Examination

• Visual Inspection: The dentist will visually assess the gums for signs of recession. This includes looking for areas where the gum tissue has pulled away from the teeth, exposing the roots.
• Measurement of Recession: The depth of the gingival recession is measured using a periodontal probe. Moderate recession is generally defined as a loss of gum tissue that is between 3 to 5 mm from the cemento-enamel junction (CEJ) to the gingival margin.

2. Assessment of Severity

• Extent of Recession: Generalized gingival recession indicates that multiple teeth are affected, rather than localized recession around a single tooth.
• Clinical Attachment Level (CAL): This measurement helps determine the severity of periodontal disease. A CAL of 3 to 5 mm is indicative of moderate recession.

3. Patient History

• Symptoms: Patients may report symptoms such as tooth sensitivity, especially to hot or cold stimuli, and aesthetic concerns regarding the appearance of their smile.
• Risk Factors: A thorough history should include potential risk factors such as:
  • Oral Hygiene Practices: Poor oral hygiene can contribute to periodontal disease and recession.
  • Habits: Habits such as aggressive brushing, tobacco use, or teeth grinding (bruxism) can exacerbate gum recession.
  • Medical History: Conditions such as diabetes or hormonal changes can influence gum health.

4. Radiographic Evaluation

• X-rays: Dental radiographs may be used to assess the bone level around the teeth and to rule out other underlying conditions that could contribute to gingival recession.

5. Differential Diagnosis

• Exclusion of Other Conditions: It is essential to differentiate generalized gingival recession from other periodontal conditions, such as localized recession or other forms of periodontal disease. This may involve additional diagnostic tests or evaluations.

Conclusion

The diagnosis of generalized gingival recession (ICD-10 code K06.022) is based on a combination of clinical examination, measurement of recession depth, patient history, and radiographic evaluation. Understanding these criteria is crucial for effective treatment planning and management of the condition. If you suspect you have this condition, consulting a dental professional for a comprehensive evaluation is recommended.

Generalized gingival recession, classified under ICD-10 code K06.022, refers to the condition where the gum tissue surrounding the teeth recedes, exposing more of the tooth or the tooth's root. This condition can lead to various dental issues, including sensitivity, increased risk of decay, and aesthetic concerns. The treatment approaches for moderate generalized gingival recession typically involve both non-surgical and surgical options, depending on the severity and underlying causes.

Non-Surgical Treatment Approaches

1. Oral Hygiene Improvement

• Patient Education: Educating patients on proper brushing techniques is crucial. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle brushing motions can help minimize further gum recession.
• Fluoride Treatments: Professional fluoride applications can strengthen tooth enamel and reduce sensitivity associated with exposed roots.

2. Scaling and Root Planing

• This deep cleaning procedure removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healing of the gums. It is often the first line of treatment for periodontal issues that may contribute to gingival recession[1].

3. Antimicrobial Therapy

• The use of antimicrobial mouth rinses or local delivery of antibiotics can help control bacterial infections that may exacerbate gum recession. This is particularly useful in cases where periodontal disease is present[1].

4. Desensitizing Agents

• Application of desensitizing agents can help alleviate discomfort caused by exposed dentin. These agents can be applied in a dental office or prescribed for home use[1].

Surgical Treatment Approaches

1. Gingival Grafting

• Connective Tissue Graft: This involves taking tissue from the palate and grafting it to the area of recession. It is one of the most common surgical procedures for treating gingival recession and can effectively cover exposed roots and improve aesthetics[1].
• Free Gingival Graft: Similar to connective tissue grafts, this method uses tissue from the palate but does not involve the underlying connective tissue. It is often used to increase the width of the attached gingiva[1].

2. Pinhole Surgical Technique

• This minimally invasive procedure involves making a small hole in the gum tissue and using special instruments to reposition the gum over the exposed roots. It is less invasive than traditional grafting techniques and can lead to quicker recovery times[1].

3. Regenerative Procedures

• In some cases, regenerative techniques may be employed to encourage the growth of new gum tissue. This can include the use of barrier membranes or growth factors to promote healing and tissue regeneration[1].

Conclusion

The management of moderate generalized gingival recession involves a combination of non-surgical and surgical approaches tailored to the individual patient's needs. Early intervention and proper oral hygiene are critical in preventing further recession and associated complications. Patients experiencing symptoms of gingival recession should consult with a dental professional to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on their specific condition and overall oral health. Regular follow-ups and maintenance care are essential to ensure the long-term success of any treatment undertaken.

ICD-10 code K06.022 refers specifically to "Generalized gingival recession, moderate." This diagnosis is part of the broader category of gingival recession, which is a common dental condition characterized by the loss of gum tissue, leading to the exposure of the roots of the teeth. Below is a detailed clinical description and relevant information regarding this condition.

Clinical Description of Generalized Gingival Recession

Definition

Generalized gingival recession occurs when the gum tissue surrounding the teeth pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or the tooth's root. This condition can affect multiple teeth and is classified as "generalized" when it is not localized to a specific area of the mouth.

Severity Classification

The term "moderate" in K06.022 indicates a specific level of severity in the gingival recession. The classification of gingival recession can vary based on the extent of tissue loss and the clinical implications for the patient. Moderate gingival recession typically involves:

• Clinical Attachment Loss: Moderate recession often corresponds to a clinical attachment loss of 3 to 5 mm, which can lead to increased sensitivity and aesthetic concerns.
• Root Exposure: The roots of the teeth may become exposed, increasing the risk of root caries and sensitivity to temperature changes.

Etiology

The causes of generalized gingival recession can be multifactorial, including:

• Periodontal Disease: Chronic inflammation and infection of the gums can lead to tissue loss.
• Mechanical Factors: Aggressive brushing, improper flossing techniques, or the use of hard-bristled toothbrushes can contribute to gum recession.
• Anatomical Factors: Thin gingival biotype or anatomical variations in the jawbone can predispose individuals to recession.
• Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, particularly in women during pregnancy or menopause, can affect gum health.
• Tobacco Use: Smoking and other forms of tobacco can impair blood flow to the gums, exacerbating recession.

Symptoms

Patients with moderate generalized gingival recession may experience:

• Increased tooth sensitivity, particularly to hot or cold stimuli.
• Aesthetic concerns due to the appearance of longer teeth.
• Possible discomfort or pain in the affected areas, especially when brushing or eating.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of generalized gingival recession is typically made through:

• Clinical Examination: Dentists assess the extent of gum recession and measure clinical attachment levels.
• Radiographic Evaluation: X-rays may be used to evaluate the underlying bone structure and any periodontal disease.

Treatment Options

Management of moderate generalized gingival recession may include:

• Non-Surgical Treatments: Improved oral hygiene practices, scaling and root planing, and the use of desensitizing agents.
• Surgical Interventions: In cases where recession is significant, surgical options such as gum grafting may be considered to restore lost tissue and improve aesthetics.

Conclusion

ICD-10 code K06.022 for generalized gingival recession, moderate, highlights a significant dental condition that requires careful assessment and management. Understanding the clinical implications, causes, and treatment options is essential for dental professionals to provide effective care and improve patient outcomes. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices are crucial in preventing and managing this condition effectively.