In cases of drug-induced gingival overgrowth, which treatment is most effective?

The most effective treatment for drug-induced gingival overgrowth is the withdrawal of medications that are responsible for the condition. This treatment addresses the underlying cause of the gingival overgrowth directly by removing the offending agent, which is often associated with certain medications like anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin), calcium channel blockers (e.g., nifedipine), and some immunosuppressants (e.g., cyclosporine). When the medication is discontinued or substituted with an alternative, the overgrown gingival tissue often begins to regress.

While other options such as the use of topical antiseptics, regular dental cleanings, and providing patient education on oral hygiene can be beneficial in managing symptoms or improving overall oral health, they do not address the core issue of the drug-induced nature of the gingival overgrowth. These supportive measures can help maintain oral hygiene and prevent additional complications, but they are not as effective as stopping the medication responsible for the overgrowth. Therefore, withdrawal of medications serves as the most direct and meaningful intervention in resolving gingival overgrowth caused by drug therapy.