Gingival Hyperplasia

ByJames T. Ubertalli, DMD, Hingham, MA
Reviewed ByDavid F. Murchison, DDS, MMS, The University of Texas at Dallas
Reviewed/Revised Modified Apr 2024
v1148985
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Hyperplasia of gingival tissues without inflammation may occur in response to various medications.

Medications that particularly cause gingival hyperplasia include the following (1):

  • PhenytoinPhenytoin

  • Valproate

  • CyclosporineCyclosporine

  • Nifedipine and other calcium channel blockersNifedipine and other calcium channel blockers

  • High-dose oral contraceptives

Hyperplasia is characterized by diffuse, relatively avascular smooth or nodular enlargement of the gingiva, which may almost cover some teeth. The hypertrophied tissue can often be excised. If possible, substitutions are made for the offending medications. Scrupulous oral hygiene may minimize recurrence.

Oral squamous cell carcinoma can also originate in the gingiva, causing apparent enlargement of gum tissue.

General reference

  1. 1. Hassell TM, Hefti AF: Drug-induced gingival overgrowth: Old problem, new problem. Crit Rev Oral Biol Med 2(1):103-37, 1991. doi: 10.1177/10454411910020010201

Drugs Mentioned In This Article

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