Gum tissue growing over teeth, known as gingival enlargement or hyperplasia, is the excessive growth of gum tissue that can cover portions of the teeth. Understanding the underlying reasons for this overgrowth is a primary step in addressing the condition.
Understanding Gum Overgrowth
Gingival overgrowth manifests as an increase in the size of the gum tissue surrounding the teeth. This enlargement often presents with a swollen appearance, and the gum tissue may exhibit changes in color, sometimes appearing redder, paler, or even purplish compared to healthy pink gums. The texture can also change, becoming firmer or more lobulated.
This condition can affect a localized area or be generalized throughout the entire mouth. When gum tissue significantly expands, it can interfere with daily functions such as chewing and speaking. The enlarged gums also create deeper pockets around the teeth, making effective oral hygiene challenging and potentially leading to further complications.
Key Factors Contributing to Gum Overgrowth
Gum tissue can overgrow due to various factors, ranging from medication side effects to underlying health conditions and genetic predispositions. Identifying the specific trigger is essential for appropriate management.
Medication-Induced Overgrowth
Certain medications are known to cause gingival enlargement as an unintended side effect. These drugs often interfere with the normal cellular processes of gum tissue. The extent of this overgrowth can vary greatly among individuals and is sometimes related to the medication dosage.
Phenytoin, an anticonvulsant for epilepsy, is a prominent example, inducing overgrowth in approximately 50% of patients. Immunosuppressants like cyclosporine, commonly prescribed after organ transplantation, can also cause significant gingival enlargement. Similarly, calcium channel blockers such as nifedipine and amlodipine, used for hypertension and heart conditions, are known to stimulate gum enlargement.
Inflammation and Poor Oral Hygiene
One of the most common causes of gum overgrowth is chronic inflammation stemming from inadequate oral hygiene. When plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, accumulates on tooth surfaces and along the gumline, it triggers an inflammatory response in the surrounding gingival tissues. This inflammation, known as gingivitis, causes the gums to swell and appear red.
Over time, this chronic irritation can lead to a proliferation of gum cells and an increase in connective tissue components. Maintaining consistent and thorough oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing and flossing, is often effective in preventing and reversing this type of inflammatory overgrowth.
Systemic Conditions and Hormonal Changes
Underlying systemic health conditions can also contribute to gingival enlargement. For instance, individuals with leukemia, a cancer of blood-forming tissues, may experience gingival infiltration by leukemic cells, leading to significant gum swelling and overgrowth.
Uncontrolled diabetes can also make individuals more susceptible to gum inflammation and enlargement due to impaired immune function. Also, hormonal changes during pregnancy or puberty can make the gums more reactive to plaque, leading to increased inflammation and a tendency for overgrowth, often referred to as pregnancy gingivitis.
Genetic Predisposition and Idiopathic Cases
In some instances, gingival overgrowth has a strong genetic component, a condition known as hereditary gingival fibromatosis. This inherited disorder results in a generalized, non-inflammatory enlargement of the gum tissue that can range from mild to severe, often appearing in childhood. The condition is characterized by an excessive accumulation of dense fibrous connective tissue.
There are also cases where the cause of gum overgrowth remains unknown, categorized as idiopathic gingival enlargement. Despite thorough diagnostic investigations, no specific local, systemic, or medication-related factors can be identified. These cases highlight the complex nature of gum tissue.
When to Seek Dental Consultation
Any noticeable overgrowth of gum tissue warrants a professional dental evaluation. A dental professional can accurately diagnose the underlying cause of the gingival enlargement, which is a primary step in determining the most appropriate course of action. Self-diagnosis can be misleading, as various factors can contribute to this condition.
A dentist will conduct a thorough examination, including reviewing your medical history, current medications, and oral hygiene practices. This assessment helps identify contributing factors, rule out more serious conditions, and assess the overgrowth’s severity. Early intervention can prevent discomfort, improve oral hygiene, and potentially avoid more extensive treatments.