Gingival Enlargement: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Gingival enlargement, also known as gingival hyperplasia, is a condition where the gums become overgrown and extend beyond their normal boundaries. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, poor oral hygiene, certain medications, and systemic diseases such as leukemia and HIV.
- Causes: Gingival enlargement can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Genetics
- Poor oral hygiene
- Certain medications, such as phenytoin, cyclosporine, and calcium channel blockers
- Systemic diseases such as leukemia and HIV
- Symptoms: The most common symptoms of gingival enlargement include:
- Swollen, red, or tender gums
- Gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing
- Gums that have a shiny appearance
- Gums that cover a larger portion of the teeth than normal
- Treatment Options: The treatment for gingival enlargement depends on the underlying cause of the condition. Some treatment options include:
- Improving oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing regularly
- Changing medications that may be causing the condition
- Surgical removal of the excess gum tissue
- Scaling and root planing to remove plaque and calculus from the teeth and gums
- Antibiotics to treat any underlying bacterial infections
If left untreated, gingival enlargement can lead to more serious dental problems, such as periodontitis and tooth loss. It is important to seek treatment from a dental professional if you suspect that you may be experiencing gingival enlargement.
In conclusion, gingival enlargement is a condition where the gums become overgrown and extend beyond their normal boundaries. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, poor oral hygiene, certain medications, and systemic diseases. The most common symptoms include swollen, red, or tender gums, gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing, gums that have a shiny appearance, and gums that cover a larger portion of the teeth than normal. Treatment options depend on the underlying cause of the condition and may include improving oral hygiene habits, changing medications, surgical removal of excess gum tissue, scaling and root planing, and antibiotics. If left untreated, gingival enlargement can lead to more serious dental problems, so