Is RT a length?
No; it is a recession type.
← All explanationsCairo recession classification
What do RT1, RT2 and RT3 mean in gum recession?
The Cairo classification groups gingival recessions by loss of tissue attachment between the teeth and on the outer surface of the affected tooth. The types are RT1, RT2 and RT3. They do not simply state how many millimetres of root are visible.
For training & practice ↓
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Choose a view
RT1: no interproximal loss
RT1 has no loss of attachment between the teeth. The outer root may still be exposed. Visible recession and tissue attachment are different measurements.
RT2: compare the loss
RT2 includes attachment loss between teeth that is no greater than attachment loss on the outer tooth surface. The comparison matters, not just the visible length.
RT3: greater interproximal loss
In RT3, interproximal attachment loss exceeds the outer-surface loss. This informs assessment of possible root coverage. A category alone neither guarantees nor rules out a specific treatment.
Read the full explanation
RT1: no interproximal loss
RT1 has no loss of attachment between the teeth. The outer root may still be exposed. Visible recession and tissue attachment are different measurements.
RT2: compare the loss
RT2 includes attachment loss between teeth that is no greater than attachment loss on the outer tooth surface. The comparison matters, not just the visible length.
RT3: greater interproximal loss
In RT3, interproximal attachment loss exceeds the outer-surface loss. This informs assessment of possible root coverage. A category alone neither guarantees nor rules out a specific treatment.
Notes on the teaching images
- Recession image · not an RT1 classification
- No RT2 classification without attachment comparison
- This image alone does not establish RT3
At a glance
Measurements needed?
Yes.
Certain outcome prediction?
No; the type is one factor.
Knowledge in motion
Explained in 36 seconds.
Three steps. No audio.
Each scene can also be selected manually.
Silent educational film with German on-screen text and simplified teaching images. Not a patient case or a promised treatment outcome. The full English explanation is available as text.
Often confused
Recession depth or Cairo type?
Recession depth is the distance from the cemento-enamel junction to the gingival margin. Cairo type compares attachment loss on different tooth surfaces.
Quick answers
Does RT3 mean three millimetres of recession?
No. The number identifies a category, not a length.
Can I identify the type from a photograph?
Not reliably. Clinical attachment measurements at several sites are needed.
Does RT1 guarantee complete root coverage?
No. The category supports prognosis but does not account for every factor affecting treatment.
At the practice
For the appointment
You can bring this question to your appointment:
Which recession type is present, and what other factors limit achievable root coverage?
Discuss your individual findings and whether a referral is appropriate.
Discuss your findingsAppointment selection at DoctolibLearning layer for training & practiceUnderstand terminology and deepen knowledge
- Interproximal
- Between neighbouring teeth.
- Buccal
- Towards the cheek or outer tooth surface.
Make the distinction
Recession depth is the distance from the cemento-enamel junction to the gingival margin. Cairo type compares attachment loss on different tooth surfaces.
Sources and context
Editorial research: . General information, not an individual diagnosis or treatment recommendation. Teaching illustrations are simplified and do not depict a patient case.