A long standing fibrous hyperplasia

Gingival enlargement is a common clinical problem, usually associated with multiple conditions. Such conditions could be associated with a variety of local and systemic factors. These can be result of trauma/chronic irritation, or arise from periodontal ligament, or periosteum. Appropriate treatment depends on correctly diagnosing the cause of the enlargement. The most common form of enlargement is due to plaque induced inflammation of the adjacent gingival tissues. In puberty and pregnancy, gingival enlargement can be due to poor oral hygiene, inadequate nutrition, or systemic variation in hormonal stimulation. In all forms of enlargements, good oral hygiene is necessary to minimize the effects of systemic factors; gingivoplasty or gingivectomy may be required, but should be done in combination with prophylaxis and oral hygiene instructions. Generalized gingival enlargement may vary from mild enlargement of interdental papillae to such severe uniform enlargement that the crowns of the teeth may be covered by hyperplastic tissue. This case report addresses the diagnosis and treatment of a case of gingival overgrowth encountered in our Department. It demonstrates the need for awareness, and role of biopsy and histopathologic evaluation in management of these lesions.