Phenytoin-induced gingival overgrowth: A case report

Drug-induced gingival enlargement manifests as an abnormal growth of the gingiva due to an adverse drug reaction in patients treated with anticonvulsants, immunosuppressants and calcium channel blockers. The enlargement affects the normal oral hygiene practice and may even interfere with masticatory functions. It may gradually becomes a source of pain and could lead to disfigurement and cosmetic problem, interfere with mastication and speech, impede effective tooth cleaning or force the teeth out of alignment.It is a serious concern for both the patient and the clinician due to unaesthetic appearance and formation of new niches for Periodonto-pathogenic bacteria. Among the anticonvulsants, Phenytoin has most frequently been described to be associated with Gingival Enlargement. This case report presents gingival hyperplasia as a side effect of Phenytoin use in a 17-year-old female patient on this drug for the last 1 year.