Management of Phenytoin-Induced Gingival Enlargement: A Case Report.

ABSTRACT

Gingival enlargement is frequently observed in patients taking certain drugs such as anticonvulsants, immune suppressants, and calcium channel blockers. The effects of these drugs are not only directed at the primary target tissues, but also on secondary target tissues, such as gingival connective tissue, causing clinical, and histopathological aberrations. These aberrations can adversely affect speech, mastication, tooth eruption, and esthetics. Disfiguring gingival overgrowth triggered by these medications often impairs the nutrition and provides access to oral infection, caries, and periodontal disease. The present case report describes the treatment of a patient with a phenytoin induced gingival enlargement.