Can the general statement be made that adults needing toothpaste for sensitive teeth have some degree of gum recession = a periodontal issue?

Yes and no because: While it is true that many patients suffer from sensitive teeth due to gum recession and cervical sensitivity, which is in part a periodontal issue, there are many other causes of tooth sensitivity which are not periodontal issues. Finally, while there are toothpastes to help with sensitivity, they may or may not work and there are other methods that your dentist can use to help. Ask your dentist.

Not always: Most often sensitivity is due to to root exposure from recession. Not all recession is due to periodontal disease, and often people with recession have very healty gums, otherwise. Sensitivity can be caused by other sources such as enamel loss, overbrushing, diets high in acid foods, cavities, grinding or bite discrepencies. Desensitizing toothpaste may be sufficient for symptoms, but not always.

No: Not always, as there can be other causes for tooth sensitivity.

No: Sensitivity has occur from other factors for example whitening number one complaint is sensitivity.