What Causes Gum Overgrowth & How Is It Treated?

Your smile is one of the first things that people will notice about you, but your teeth aren’t the only thing that composes your grin—your gums are also very obvious! And if you’ve recently discovered that your gums seem a little overgrown and uneven, you might be wondering what caused this issue and whether it’s treatable. Here’s more from your dentist in Huntington Beach about what causes gum overgrowth and what you can do to address it.

What Causes Gum Overgrowth?

Gingival hyperplasia, colloquially referred to as gum overgrowth, is a condition that occurs when the soft tissues surrounding your teeth begin to cover too much of their upper structure. Simply put, it gives you the appearance of a gummy smile! It can stem from a variety of causes, but a few common ones include:

• Gum disease – Gingivitis is often caused by poor oral hygiene, and it’s notorious for triggering all sorts of problems inside one’s mouth. If left untreated, it can irritate and inflame your gums to the point of them becoming overgrown.
• Systematic health conditions – In some cases, conditions like leukemia, HIV, diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, or even pregnancy can result in excessive gum tissue.
• Genetics – Sometimes, people are simply born with a genetic predisposition to gummy smiles.
• Certain medications – Some medications used to manage heart conditions, prevent seizures, or lower your immune system activity can also cause excess gum tissue.

How Is Gum Overgrowth Usually Treated?

Gum overgrowth is certainly worth addressing, as it affects the look and health of your smile! If it’s being caused by untreated gum disease, the infection has the potential to enter your bloodstream and spread to other parts of your body, increasing your risk for conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and more.

While it will depend on the cause and extent of your gum overgrowth, there are many viable options for treating the issue including scaling and root planing, various types of surgery, and more. In addition to seeking treatment, practicing excellent oral hygiene will ensure that the issue doesn’t pose a threat to your overall wellness. Brushing and flossing daily, coupled with using an antibacterial mouthwash, will work wonders for your gums.

If you’re concerned about how gum overgrowth might be affecting the look and health of your smile, don’t hesitate to visit your dentist to talk about possible treatment options.

About the Practice

Dr. Justin Braga and his team at Huntington Beach Periodontics are thrilled to serve the dental needs of the surrounding community! Dr. Braga received his dental doctorate from the University of the Pacific in San Francisco and his practice is pleased to offer a wide range of available services including several periodontal treatment options. If you have any questions about gum overgrowth or would like to arrange a visit, you can contact Dr. Braga through his practice’s website or over the phone for assistance: (714) 587-9084.