If your gums grow over your teeth or have protruding bumps, you may have a condition called Hyperplastic Gingival. It can be a challenge to figure out the cause of this issue and deal with it yourself. Luckily, we're here to help you understand this problem, what's its cause and what's your best course of action
Hyperplastic Gingiva (Gingival hyperplasia)
Gingival hyperplasia is a condition in which the gingiva (also called gums) overgrown. While some people have too little gum tissue to cover their teeth, people with this condition have too much gum tissue
The severity of the condition can vary, from small bumps to gum growths that almost completely cover the teeth. Rest assured, this condition is not contagious.
Since gingival hyperplasia is related to overgrowing gums rather than a specific condition, it has several possible causes. Understanding the causes of gingival hyperplasia is essential for treatment and prevention.
Causes of Gingival Hyperplasia:
1. Inflammatory Gingival Enlargement
The observed gingival enlargement, which can be local or systemic, is an inflammatory response that occurs when plaque (accumulation of food debris and bacteria) builds up on the teeth. This is due to the patient not practicing effective oral hygiene.
The gums affected by this condition are usually soft, tender, red, and bleed easily. Fortunately, this condition can often be resolved with effective oral hygiene practices (brushing, flossing) to remove plaque and irritants from the teeth.
2. Swollen Gums Caused By Drugs
People taking certain medicines may experience swollen gums. In contrast to inflammatory gingival enlargement, the gum tissue in this condition is usually firm, not soft, pale pink, and does not bleed easily.
In severe cases, the gums can completely cover the crown, leading to periodontal disease (gum disease) (due to difficulty keeping teeth clean), as well as problems with eruption and alignment.
The swelling of the gums caused by the drug may partially or completely resolve after the drug is stopped. Surgical removal of excess gum (gingivectomy) is possible if the medication cannot be stopped, but the condition may recur.
Since the level of plaque buildup on the teeth can make this condition worse, effective oral hygiene practices can reduce its severity.
3.Hereditary Hyperplastic Gingival
This is a rare genetic disorder that usually occurs in childhood, although some cases may not appear until adulthood.
The condition presents as slow-growing, generalized or occasionally localized, nontender, firm, pale pink swellings of the gums.
Surgical removal of excess gum is usually necessary to prevent impaction and tooth displacement. Due to the recurrent nature of this condition, repeat surgical excision may be required.
4. Systemic Causes of Swollen Gums
There are many physical and systemic conditions that can contribute to localized and/or generalized gingival enlargement, such as: B. Pregnancy, Leukemia, and Hormonal imbalances.
Swollen gums associated with systemic disease usually resolve with treatment of the underlying disease or, in the case of pregnancy, the birth of a child.
As with drug-induced swollen gums, effective oral hygiene practices can reduce the risk of swollen gums.
Gingival Hyperplasia Symptoms
If you are concerned about gum growth, it is best to ask your doctor or dentist for specialist information. Because there are multiple potential causes of this overgrowth that produce similar symptoms, it's not easy to diagnose yourself properly.
In most cases, diagnosis and treatment are best left to professionals, and gingival hyperplasia is no exception. Since some of your own health problems may be involved, identifying any underlying problems can help you succeed.
Even if you already know the cause of your overgrown gums, it may be a sign that your treatment plan needs to be changed or updated. This can help prevent side effects or unwanted results and ensure you feel as comfortable and healthy as possible.
To diagnose your gum hyperplasia, your doctor or dentist may:
- Take your full medical history and ask what medications you are currently taking
- Take an oral exam
- A biopsy of the affected tissue or other tests, such as blood tests, are recommended
Gingival Hyperplasia Treatment
The correct treatment for gingival overgrowth depends on its severity and underlying cause. If your gums prevent you from chewing or cleaning properly, or if you have other problems, your dentist or doctor may recommend gum removal (also called a gingivectomy).
They may also recommend professional cleaning to remove plaque that has hardened into tartar and cannot be removed on its own.
It is never a good idea to stop your prescription or change your dose yourself if your drug is causing your growth. Discuss your concerns with your doctor.
In some cases, alternative medicines may be prescribed.
Regardless of the underlying cause of gingival enlargement, it is important to maintain proper dental Care to avoid other dental problems.
Your gums can cause food particles to trap or make it difficult for you to properly clean your teeth, leading to increased plaque levels.
To properly care for your gums, take care of the following:
- Use floss, flosser, or interdental brush to thoroughly clean between your teeth every day
- Gently brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Rinse with mouthwash or antiseptic mouthwash
- Eating a balanced and healthy diet of low-sugar or acidic foods
- Avoid smoking and tobacco products
- See your dentist at least every six months to prevent related dental problems
There are many underlying causes of gingival hyperplasia; each has an appropriate treatment that best suits your specific situation.
It is important to consult with your dentist or doctor to find the best way forward and best improve your health in the future while preventing other dental or medical problems.
You now fully understand the causes of overgrown gums and the appropriate measures to treat it.
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