[Drug-induced gingival proliferation: overview of etiology and treatment]

Cyclosporine, substituted Dihydropyridines and Phenytoin are three drugs that are often correlated with gingival overgrowth. Differences in incidence and histology are reviewed. Due to the large range of illnesses for which these drugs are prescribed, we can only anticipate a high increase in the number of patients who seek treatment for their enlarged gums. Contemporary treatment modalities are changing towards increased usage of these pharmaceutics which will lead to a high frequency of patients which have drug induced alterations of their gingival structures. The dental practitioners will also need to be consulted prior to drug treatment so that preventive measures can be taken. Treatment of gingival overgrowth is discussed.