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Lookup NU author(s): Emeritus Professor Robin Seymour, Professor Janice EllisORCiD, Professor Mark Thomason
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Background/Aims: Drug-induced gingival overgrowth remains a significant problem for the periodontologist. Many patients medicated with the drugs implicated in this unwanted effect experience significant, recurrent gingival problems that require repeated surgical excisions. In this review, we attempt to identify and quantify the various "risk factors" associated with both the development and expression of the drug-induced gingival changes. Method: The risk factors appraised include age, sex, drug variables, concomitant medication, periodontal variables and genetic factors. Elucidation of such factors may help to identify "at risk patients" and then develop appropriate treatment strategies. Results: Of the factors identified, the only one that can be affected by the periodontologist is the patents' periodontal condition. However, drug variables and concomitant medication do impact upon the expression of gingival overgrowth. Conclusion: The identificatioin of risk factors associated with both the prevalence and severity of drug-induced gingival overgrowth is important for all parties involved with this unwanted effect. Both periodontologist and patient have an important rôle to play in improving oral hygiene and gingival health. Likewise, there is always an opportinity to establish a close liaison between the patient's physician and the periodontologist to try and identify alternative drug regimens that can help reduce the impact of this unwanted effect. © Munksgaard, 2000.
Author(s): Seymour RA, Ellis JS, Thomason JM
Publication type: Article
Publication status: Published
Journal: Journal of Clinical Periodontology
Year: 2000
Volume: 27
Issue: 4
Pages: 217-223
Print publication date: 01/04/2000
ISSN (print): 0303-6979
ISSN (electronic): 1600-051X
Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell Publishing
PubMed id: 10783833
