Causes and risk factors
Depending upon the causation, gingival enlargement is classified into various types – inflammatory, medicated medication induced, hereditary, and or due to systemic causes. Poor dental hygiene is the most common cause of enlargement of gums. Overcrowding of the oral cavity due to presence of supernumerary teeth and smoking are certain other contributing factors. Enlargement of gums can be secondary to certain other conditions like hormonal imbalance, nutritional deficiency, and various systemic diseases. Gum enlargement is commonly seen in diseases like HIV, diabetes, Crohn’s diseases, Kaposi’s sarcoma, etc.; certain genetic conditions like hereditary fibromatosis, Cowden’s syndrome, etc. Although the exact cause is still not clear, certain hormonal changes can also trigger this condition. Hence this condition is more commonly seen during puberty, pregnancy, and during menopause. ; a variety of blood conditions have like also leukemia, . Lymphoma have also been responsible for this. Gingival enlargement can also occur as a side effect of certain medication.
Clinical features:
As the name suggests, the gums are enlarged. A discomfort is felt in the mouth. Soreness occurs along with tenderness. The gums become red and soft and they bleed easily. Halitosis is another associated symptom seen. Enlargement of gums caused as a side effect of gums makes the gums pale, however, no tenderness is seen. Over time, the enlarged tissues can become weak and loose. Eventually they shrink or may recede, thus exposing the roots.
Diagnosis:
Diagnosis is done on the basis of symptoms narrated by the patient and the clinical examination carried out by the dentist. The personal and medical history are is taken into consideration to find out the underlying cause. Histological examination of the gum tissues can be done to rule out infective causes. Routine blood tests can also be advised.
Treatment
Treating the underlying cause is the main line of treatment. Maintainenece of good oral hygiene is mandatory. Antibiotic medications are advised in cases where the gums are affected due to infection. Ultrasonic treatment is also effective. The dentist will clean the teeth and will remove the bacterial plaques. In severe cases, the excess of tissue needs to be removed surgically.
