Gingival enlargement refers to an abnormal increase in the size of gum tissue. Healthy gums should be firm and fit tightly against your teeth, while enlarged gums appear soft, bulbous, and can even protrude over the teeth. Read on to learn more about the causes and treatments for gingival enlargement.Gingival Enlargement Causes
Gingival enlargement can be caused by inflammation or disease, or it can be a side effect of certain medications. Inflammation is the most common cause of enlarged gum tissue, and it results from bacteria accumulating in your mouth. In addition to causing gum disease and tooth decay, plaque and bacteria that build up on your teeth and along the gum line can also lead to gingival enlargement. This is usually the result of poor oral hygiene, but people who breathe through their mouths may be especially at risk of inflammatory gingival enlargement.
There are also diseases and medications that can cause gingival enlargement. Hormone fluctuations that occur with puberty or pregnancy, vitamin C deficiency, leukemia, and other cancers can sometimes lead to abnormal overgrowth of gum tissue. Additionally, people who take medications such as nifedipine for heart disease, immunosuppressants such as cyclosporine, or anticonvulsants such as phenytoin and phenobarbital may experience gingival enlargement as a side effect.
Gingival Enlargement Treatment
The treatment for gingival enlargement depends on its cause. Inflammation-induced gingival enlargement can often be reversed through proper oral hygiene, deep professional cleaning, and other gum disease treatment such as scaling and root planing, if necessary. For disease- or drug-induced gingival enlargement, treatment would involve treating the underlying disease and prescribing a different type of medication. In some cases, surgery known as gingivectomy may be necessary to remove the enlarged gum tissue. If you have enlarged gums, call our office today to set up an appointment and discuss your treatment options.
