Drug-induced gingival overgrowth (DIGO) is an umbrella term for all medication-related gingival lesions. These lesions were previously known as “gingival hyperplasia” or “gingival hypertrophy.” Phenytoin is an offending drug, which is known to cause DIGO. Phenytoin, nifedipine, and cyclosporine are well-known iatrogenic causes of gingival enlargement. Among the above-mentioned drugs, phenytoin is the most studied for its association with gingival enlargement.
The prevalence of DIGO varies between drugs. Approximately 50% of patients medicated with phenytoin were known to experience significant gingival changes, whilst the figures for nifedipine and cyclosporin are closer to 20% and 30%, respectively. There are various risk factors associated with DIGO expressions, such as age and other demographic factors. Concomitant medications, periodontal variables, and genetic factors play an…
