Gingival Hyperplasia: Why Your Gums Might Be Overgrowing


 

Your gums are meant to support your smile—not cover it. But when they start looking puffy, tender, or even begin creeping over your teeth, it could be a sign of gingival hyperplasia, a condition that causes gum overgrowth.

While it may seem like a cosmetic issue, this condition can lead to real oral health problems. Overgrown gums can trap food particles, make brushing difficult, and increase your risk of plaque, cavities, and gum infections.

What Is Gingival Hyperplasia?

Gingival hyperplasia is the abnormal growth of gum tissue. Unlike typical gum inflammation from poor brushing habits, this involves actual tissue buildup. Left untreated, it can impact your appearance, speech, chewing ability, and overall oral hygiene.

Signs to Watch Out For

  • Puffy, swollen, or enlarged gums

  • Gums that bleed easily during brushing or flossing

  • Bad breath that doesn't go away

  • Difficulty chewing or speaking

These symptoms shouldn’t be ignored. The sooner you act, the easier it is to treat.

What Causes It?

There are multiple reasons behind gingival hyperplasia:

  • Poor oral hygiene – Plaque buildup near the gumline can trigger tissue overgrowth.

  • Hormonal changes – Puberty and pregnancy may cause gum swelling.

  • Medical conditions – Diseases like leukemia can affect the gums.

  • Genetics – Some people are simply more prone to it.

Medication Side Effects

Certain medications are a common trigger:

  • Anti-seizure drugs like phenytoin

  • Immunosuppressants such as cyclosporine

  • Blood pressure medications like amlodipine or nifedipine

If you’re on any of these, inform your dentist so they can monitor your gum health closely.

Braces and Gum Overgrowth

Braces can make it harder to clean your teeth properly, especially around brackets. This buildup of plaque can lead to gingival hyperplasia, particularly in teenagers. At Oris Dental Center, Dubai, we offer guidance on maintaining oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment.

Treatment Options

  • Mild Cases: Improved oral care and antimicrobial mouthwash.

  • Moderate Cases: Professional cleaning like scaling and root planing.

  • Severe Cases: Surgical removal of excess tissue through gingivectomy.

We also work with your physician if your medication is a contributing factor.

Prevention Tips

Brush twice a day, floss daily, use mouthwash, and visit your dentist regularly. If you wear braces, try an interdental brush or water flosser.

When to See a Dentist

If your gums look or feel unusual, don’t wait. At Oris Dental Center, we help diagnose and manage gingival hyperplasia effectively, restoring your gum health and your smile.

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