Methods for 3D evaluation and quantification of gingival recessions and gingival margin changes: Advancements from conventional techniques.

Abstract

In an era of increasing life expectancy and growing patient demands towards lifelong natural tooth retention, accurate assessment of gingival recessions is crucial for diagnosing periodontal diseases, planning preventive or restorative interventions, and evaluating their outcomes. The traditional two-dimensional (2D) methods, while useful, often fall short in capturing the complex topography of gingival tissue margins and their changes over time. By examining relevant published studies, this review highlights the transition from 2D to 3D techniques, analyzing the limitations of widely used 2D approaches, while emphasizing the potential of novel 3D tools and techniques. It discusses their comparative effectiveness, accuracy, and application challenges in clinical and research settings. Advancements in three-dimensional (3D) imaging regarding methodologies for the precise evaluation and quantification of free gingival margin changes and gingival recessions are explored and critically evaluated. The review underscores the potential for these technologies to enhance patient outcomes through more precise diagnosis and data generation. It also identifies gaps in current research and suggests directions for future investigation. Overall, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the state of the art in 3D evaluation methods for gingival recessions and gingival margin changes, offering valuable insights for clinicians and researchers.