When measuring gingival recession, which factor should you not rely on?

• A. CEJ position
• B. Coloration
• C. GM-CEJ distance
• D. PD

Answer: (B)

Gingival recession is quantified by how far the gingival margin has moved away from a stable tooth landmark, not by how the tissue looks. The key reference point is the cemento-enamel junction (CEJ), because its position is essentially fixed over time. By measuring the distance from the gingival margin to the CEJ, you obtain a true recession depth (GM-CEJ distance). If the gingival margin sits apical to the CEJ, recession is present and you quantify how far it has receded; this is repeatable and comparable over time.

Probing depth is useful for assessing overall periodontal status and pocketing, but it does not translate directly into recession amount. Pocket depth can be influenced by inflammation or pocket formation that doesn’t necessarily reflect how much the gingival margin has receded.

Coloration or tissue appearance, including pigmentation or staining, is not a reliable indicator of recession. Tissue color can vary widely due to pigmentation, inflammation, staining, restorative materials, or lighting, and does not provide a consistent measure of how far the margin has moved.

So, you should not rely on coloration when assessing gingival recession because it does not correlate with the actual recession distance.