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Development of phenytoin-induced gingival overgrowth in non-institutionalized epileptic children subjected to

T Modéer, G Dahllöf

    Acta Odontologica Scandinavica
    |April 1, 1987
    PubMed

    Insights

    Preventive dental care before starting phenytoin (PHT) medication significantly reduces gingival overgrowth in epileptic children. Early intervention prevents pseudopockets, unlike later or no preventive programs.

    Area of Science:

    • Periodontology
    • Pediatric Dentistry
    • Pharmacology

    Background:

    • Phenytoin (PHT) medication is known to cause gingival overgrowth in children.
    • The effectiveness of different preventive dental programs on PHT-induced gingival overgrowth requires further investigation.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To evaluate the impact of varying preventive dental programs on the periodontal condition of children treated with phenytoin.
    • To determine the optimal timing for initiating preventive interventions to minimize gingival overgrowth.

    Main Methods:

    • A study involving 59 non-institutionalized epileptic children treated with phenytoin.
    • Comparison of three groups: intensive preventive program before PHT, moderate program after PHT, and a control group with no additional program.
    • Assessment of periodontal condition, specifically the development of pseudopockets and gingival overgrowth.

    Main Results:

    • None of the children in the intensive preventive group (program initiated before PHT) developed pseudopockets.
    • Pseudopockets developed in approximately 46% of the moderate preventive group and 40% of the control group.
    • A significant positive correlation was found between the duration of poor plaque control and the incidence of gingival overgrowth.

    Conclusions:

    • An intensive preventive dental program initiated before the commencement of phenytoin medication is highly effective in preventing pseudopockets.
    • Early and consistent plaque control is crucial for minimizing gingival overgrowth in PHT-treated children.
    • Proactive dental care strategies are recommended for epileptic children undergoing phenytoin therapy.

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