Posted on 2/15/2016 by Implant & Periodontal Associates NW
Gingival enlargement is a condition in which the gums - or gingival tissues - grow excessively. There are several different types of gingival enlargement, including those caused by genetics and medication. To learn more about this condition, read on to check out some of the most frequently asked questions.
What Mediations Cause Gingival Enlargement?
There are a few common medications that can result in gingival enlargement, including phenytoin (used to treat seizures), cyclosporine (used to prevent the rejection of organs after a transplant), and calcium channel blockers (used to manage conditions like hypertension and chest pains).
I'm Taking One of Those Medications - Will I Experience Gingival Enlargement?
It depends on which medication you are taking and how long you are using it. For example, people taking phenytoin for a seizure disorder have a 50% chance of developing gingival enlargement. Cyclosporine users have a lower prevalence at 25-30%, but children who use this medication have a greater than 70% chance of developing the condition.
Can I Catch Gingival Enlargement from Someone Else?
No. Gingival enlargement isn't contagious, so it isn't something that you can catch from another person.
Will I Need Surgery to Correct this Condition?
That will depend on the cause of your gingival enlargement and the severity. For hereditary gingival fibromatosis, surgery is often recommended, as excess gingival tissue is needed to avoid tooth displacement and impaction. Multiple surgical removals might also be needed because this condition tends to be recurrent in nature, meaning the gingival tissue will continue to grow even after removal.
What Should I Do if My Gums Are Enlarged?
If you notice that your gums are looking larger, please call our office today to make an appointment. In most cases, your dentist can look at your medical history to find an explanation, but if none is readily apparent, further testing might be necessary.
Contact Us Implant and Periodontal Associates Northwest
Gingival enlargement is a condition in which the gums - or gingival tissues - grow excessively. There are several different types of gingival enlargement, including those caused by genetics and medication. To learn more about this condition, read on to check out some of the most frequently asked questions.