Gingival fibromatosis is a type of gingival disease. This means that it is a disease of the gums in your mouth. It is not painful but the swelling of the gums can be more than a little irritating because of how it looks. It was first recorded in 1856 and was described as, "fungus excrescence of the gingiva". This swelling is often irregular and can often be associated with bleeding gums. It can be symmetrical and regular and can even grow so much that it covers the teeth. If you have swollen and bleeding gums it may just be gingivitis.

       Gingival fibromatosis is similar to gingival hyperplasia but is more associated with hereditary causes rather than drug induced causes. Because it is hereditary, it is a much more extensive problem that requires more treatment and is more likely to present at a younger age. Patients with leukemia can often present such problems but it is instead called leukemic gingivitis or leukemic gingival hyperplasia. It is the cause that differentiates the disease although symptoms are similar.

       Gingival fibramatosis and gingival hyperplasia are both less likely to present if proper oral hygiene and gum care practices are kept. This does not mean that oral hygiene will always prevent the disease from showing up but it will make it less likely. If the cause is drug induced, symptoms will often present within a few months but can at times take up to a year before they become apparent. A gingivectomy and/or gum recontouring are simple procedures that can treat the effects of the disease.

       If you are having a problem with a gingival fibramatosis and would like to learn more about what you can do, please consider visiting us at the Atlanta Dental Group PC. Our Atlanta dental team has over 45 years of combined dental experience serving Atlanta's dental needs. Our dentists in Georgia are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being and you are more than welcome to join our family of patients. If you would like schedule a free dental consultation with our Atlanta dentist, Dr. Mark Allan Padolsky, call to make an appointment at 404-874-7428.