Gingival hyperplasia, or overgrowth of the gum tissue, can make daily activities like eating and speaking uncomfortable and affect the appearance of your smile. It’s more than a cosmetic concern; gingival hyperplasia often signals underlying dental or health issues that should not be ignored.
Read this article to unveil this condition, its causes, treatment with professional advice from a professional dentist near you and how to manage it to enjoy a healthier and comfortable smile.
What Is Gingival Hyperplasia?
Gingival hyperplasia, also known as gingival overgrowth, is a condition where the gum tissue swells and enlarges. This excessive growth makes the gums to cover as much of the teeth as possible making it look bulky in the mouth. Chronic gingival hyperplasia leads to problems in the regular oral hygiene, difficulty in cleaning the teeth efficiently and, in worst cases, can result in periodontal disease.
In cases where the patients are dealing with this problem, early diagnosis and treatment plays a crucial role. Some of the symptoms of gingival overgrowth include, swollen and red gums and if you observe any of these changes, then it is advisable to pay a visit to a dentist near you.
Understanding the Causes of Gingival Hyperplasia
Gingival hyperplasia occurs as a result of a number of causes. The impact of these molecules defines the course of the disease as well as the therapy. Some primary causes include:
1. Medications
The most prevalent cause of gingival enlargement is the use of various medicines that include:
- Antiseizure drugs (like phenytoin)
- Immunosuppressants (such as cyclosporine)
- Calcium channel blockers (often used for heart conditions)
These medications can stimulate excessive growth of the gum tissue as a side effect. If you are using any of these medicines and experience swelling of the gums, seek advice from the dentist regarding possible substitutes or measures to be taken.
2. Systemic Health Conditions
Gingival hyperplasia can also be systemic, this implies that it may be associated with other health problems affecting the entire body. For example:
- Leukemia can lead to inflamed, enlarged gums as a result of the body’s altered immune response.
- Hormonal changes during pregnancy or puberty can sometimes cause temporary gingival overgrowth.
Understanding the systemic causes of gingival hyperplasia is essential for effective treatment. If you are suffering from a systemic health issue and notice gum changes, you must visit a dentist in Nanaimo and check if you are potentially at risk.
3. Gingival Fibromatosis
Gingival fibromatosis is a rare autosomal dominant genetic disease which is characterized by increased size and thickness of the gums, often at a young age. Unlike medication-induced hyperplasia, gingival fibromatosis progresses slowly over time, potentially requiring specialized periodontal treatment in Nanaimo. Genetic counseling and regular dental visits are recommended for individuals and families with this condition to ensure that the overgrowth doesn’t impact dental health too severely.
Symptoms of Gingival Hyperplasia
It is essential to understand that the gingival hyperplasia symptoms depend on the cause and the extent of the condition. Common symptoms include:.
- Gums which are larger and swollen and can cover a portion of the teeth
- Gums that appear red, tender, or inflamed
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Problems with proper care of teeth and gums, which gives rise to plaque formation and cavities
These symptoms can be uncomfortable, but with prompt treatment, they are manageable. If you’re noticing any of these signs, don’t hesitate to reach out to a dentist near you to discuss solutions.
Treatment Options for Gingival Hyperplasia
If you have gingival hyperplasia, the treatment you need would certainly depend on the cause. Here are widely used options:
1. Non-Surgical Treatments
When the disease is not severe, the recommended treatment is enhanced oral hygiene practice and dental scaling. Daily brushing, flossing and use of antibacterial mouthwash may help to remove the plaque that leads to inflammation and gum growth.
Your dentist in Nanaimo may also recommend scaling and root planing, a deep-cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline. This could effectively lessen gum inflammation in a patient with gingival hyperplasia caused by either poor hygiene or inflammation.
2. Surgical Options
In more severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove the excess gum tissue. Common surgical treatments include:
- Gingivectomy: This procedure removes a portion of the overgrown gum tissue, reshaping it to expose more of the tooth.
- Laser therapy: Some dentists use laser technology to carefully trim and reshape the gums, offering a less invasive option with quicker recovery.
At Uplands Dental, our team offers advanced periodontal treatment in Nanaimo, using state-of-the-art equipment to ensure effective and comfortable care for patients needing surgical gum treatment.
3. Adjusting Medications
If a particular medication is causing gingival hyperplasia, your dentist and physician may work together to adjust your prescription. Changing to a different drug (if possible) may prevent further gum overgrowth.
Preventing Gingival Hyperplasia
While some causes of gingival hyperplasia are beyond your control, maintaining good oral hygiene can help reduce the risk of developing gum overgrowth. Here are a few tips:
- Brush and Floss Regularly: Brushing twice daily and flossing once daily helps keep plaque levels under control, reducing gum inflammation.
- Regular Dental Checkups: Scheduling regular appointments with a dentist near you ensures that any signs of gingival hyperplasia are detected early, allowing for prompt treatment.
- Avoid Tobacco: Smoking and other forms of tobacco can worsen gum inflammation and may contribute to gum growth.
By maintaining these habits and keeping up with routine dental visits, you’re taking proactive steps to keep your gums healthy and reduce the risk of gingival overgrowth.
When to See a Dentist in Nanaimo for Gingival Hyperplasia
If you’re experiencing any signs of gingival hyperplasia or have a health condition that might put you at risk, seeing a dentist in Nanaimo for an evaluation can give you peace of mind. At Uplands Dental, our dedicated team is here to provide personalized care and periodontal treatment options to address gingival hyperplasia effectively. Whether you need a routine cleaning, medication guidance, or specialized surgery, our experienced staff is ready to support your dental health.
Restore Your Smile at Uplands Dental
Managing gingival hyperplasia doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With proper care, you can control and even reverse the effects of gum overgrowth. At Uplands Dental, we understand that every patient’s needs are unique, and we’re committed to providing tailored treatment solutions in a comfortable, caring environment.
Ready to take control of your gum health? Contact Uplands Dental today to schedule an appointment with our dentist in Nanaimo. Our friendly, experienced team will help you explore the best periodontal treatment options for gingival hyperplasia and restore your smile with confidence.
