Most people fear gum recession, but have you ever heard of gums growing over teeth? The idea of pink fleshy gums slowly sliding over your pearly whites can be a little scary, and no one wants to lose their teeth under their gums.
This condition – the overgrowth of gums – is known as gingival hyperplasia, and it can occur due to health issues and various genetic factors. But don’t worry; as terrifying as it is, gingival hyperplasia can be treated. If you want to know more about this condition’s causes and treatment options, keep reading this blog.
What Exactly Is Gingival Hyperplasia?
To put it simply, gingival hyperplasia is an oral condition where your gums start to grow over your teeth. In severe cases, the gum flaps completely cover the teeth, making it nearly impossible to maintain good oral hygiene.
Nonetheless, gingival hyperplasia doesn’t have an abnormal speed rate. Depending on the individual, the condition might present itself in the form of a small bump tilted towards the teeth, as it is not always severe.
Why Are My Gums Growing Over My Teeth?
Despite what many believe, gums growing over your teeth is not a sign of poor oral hygiene. Unfortunately, it’s a condition that you do not have control over. Albeit there are various factors that come into play, all of which heavily affect the likelihood of Gingival hyperplasia, mentioned below are some of its main causes:
1. Genetic Imbalance
Your genetic buildup plays a huge part in shaping your health. If your parents or someone in your ancestral line had overgrown gums, chances are, you might have a link to it in your genes.
2. Systemic Health Issues
Anything that leads to hormonal imbalance is an immediate precursor to gum overgrowth. Systemic diseases like diabetes, vitamin deficiency, HIV, and pregnancy can cause gingival hyperplasia.
3. Side Effects of Certain Medications
Some prescribed medications can inflame your gums and lead to overgrowth. This includes antiseizure drugs, calcium blockers, and immunosuppressants.
4. Untreated Dental Concerns
Gum inflammation is also a basis for gum overgrowth. Thus, untreated diseases like pericoronitis or periodontitis can gravely affect your gums.
5.Collagen Overproduction
Gingival hyperplasia may also be a result of your body producing excess collagen. This is usually led on by a condition known as hereditary gingival fibromatosis (HGF).
Treatment For Gum Overgrowth
To be able to treat overgrown gums, you first need to know the underlying reason behind it. A periodontist might be able to help you with the
specifics. However, in most cases, treatment options for gum overgrowth include the following:
- Laser gum removal
- Electrosurgery
- Periodontal flap surgery
- Gum contouring
- Anti-inflammatory medications
Conclusion
Even though you might not have a serious case of gums growing over your teeth, if you spot even the slightest change, make sure to visit a dentist. This way, you can get things checked out before it’s too late.
For more information, contact Almond Dental. You can do this by visiting our clinic or calling us at any one of the following locations:
St. Anthony Location: 3803 Silver Lake Rd NE, St Anthony, MN 55421, United States
Contact Number: (612) 782-7000
Maple Grove Location: 11301 Fountains Dr, Maple Grove, MN 55369, United States
Contact Number: (763) 762-7177