Management of Orthodontic-Induced Gingival Enlargement: A Case Report

Cureus. 2023 Oct 25;15(10):e47660. doi: 10.7759/cureus.47660. eCollection 2023 Oct.

Abstract

The aetiology of gingival enlargement (GE) is highly distinct. Plaque-induced gingival inflammation can be the sole reason for gingival enlargement. Poor dental hygiene, irritation from anatomical variations, and ineffective restorative and orthodontic appliances are all factors that encourage the formation and retention of plaque. In the given case report, a case of gingival enlargement associated with an orthodontic appliance of a 23-year-old female patient referred from the Department of Orthodontics was reported to the Department of Periodontics. Under local anaesthesia, the excess gingival tissue is removed using a scalpel by gingivectomy and gingivoplasty procedures. The gingivectomy and gingivoplasty procedures using a scalpel gave the best results in the orthodontic treatment associated with gingival enlargement. After achieving hemostasis, the periopack (Coe-pack) was placed to assist healing by protecting the tissue. The above case report can appreciate the gingival tissue covering almost half of the crown, causing plaque retention and presenting the patient with aesthetic concerns. After the surgical procedure, a proper gingival contour eliminates suprabony pockets and provides pleasant esthetics. This case report demonstrates that eliminating the suprabony pockets by gingivectomy and gingivoplasty leads to a physiologic gingival contour and eliminates plaque retention. The conventional scalpel gingivectomy procedure is an effective form of treatment when indicated.

Keywords: gingival enlargement; gingivectomy; gingivoplasty; orthodontic induced gingival enlargement; orthodontic therapy; scalpel.

Publication types

  • Case Reports