Association between calcium-channel blockers and gingival enlargement: A case-control study.

OBJECTIVES: As reported by the existing literature, calcium-channel blockers (CCB) can lead to gingival enlargement. The aims of this study were to investigate the factors associated with gingival enlargement in patients on CCB and to assess the saliva and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) profile of patients on CCB with gingival enlargement. METHODS: A total of 131 participants were included. Data were collected from 91 patients taking CCB for treatment of systemic hypertension. The presence of drug-induced gingival enlargement (DIGE) was assessed clinically and associated with patient factors. Patients with DIGE were group-matched for gender and ethnicity with an equal number of consecutive CCB non-DIGE patients (control 1), no-CCB no-DIGE (control 2) and periodontally healthy with no DIGE (control 3) for the saliva and GCF analysis. A bead-based multiplex immunoassay was used to assess a panel of biomarkers. RESULTS: Twenty-two percent of patients on CCB were diagnosed with DIGE. Lack of daily interdental cleaning and self-reported diagnosis of type II diabetes were associated with the diagnosis of DIGE. When analysing patients only on CCB, those with DIGE had higher GCF levels of vascular endolthelial growth factor (VEGF) (p = 0.032), epidermal growth factor (EGF) (p = 0.030) and matrix metalloproteinase-8 (MMP-8) (p = 0.008). Among the salivary markers, only MMP-8 showed a statistically significant difference across groups (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: This is the first study investigating saliva and GCF biomarkers in patients with DIGE and different control groups, suggesting that causes of the overgrowth might involve inflammatory processes, tissue damage pathways, and potentially an impact on growth factors like VEGF. Future research should verify these results in independent populations and explore the underlying pathogenic mechanisms in-depth. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Calcium-channel blockers (CCB) can lead to gingival enlargement. This study confirms lack of interdental cleaning and type II diabetes as risk factors. Elevated levels of VEGF, EGF, and MMP-8 in gingival crevicular fluid and MMP-8 in saliva suggest inflammatory processes and growth factors might play roles in this condition.

Antiproliferative effect of low-level laser/ photobiomodulation on gingival fibroblasts derived from calcium channel blocker-induced gingival overgrowth.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the antiproliferative properties of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on gingival fibroblasts obtained from calcium channel blocker-induced gingival overgrowth (GO). Gingival fibroblasts of patients with GO were compared to healthy gingival fibroblasts (H). Both cells were exposed to LLLT (685 nm wavelength, 25mW power, diode laser) and compared to those not treated with LLLT. Cell proliferation and viability were measured with MTT assay at baseline and after 24 and 72 h. TGF-ß1, CTGF, and collagen Type 1 levels were evaluated with Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). LLLT significantly decreased the proliferation of GO fibroblasts (p < 0.05) while leading to a significantly higher proliferation in H fibroblasts compared to the untreated cells (p < 0.05). GO cells showed significantly higher CTGF, TGF-ß, and collagen Type 1 expression than the H cells (p < 0.05). LLLT significantly reduced CTGF levels in GO cells compared to the control group (p < 0.05). In H cells, CTGF and TGF-ß levels were also significantly decreased in response to LLLT compared to the control group (p < 0.05). While LLLT significantly reduced collagen expression in the H group (p < 0.05), it did not significantly impact the GO cells. LLLT significantly reduced the synthesis of the growth factors and collagen in both groups with an antiproliferative effect on the gingival fibroblasts from calcium channel blocker-induced GO, suggesting that it can offer a therapeutic approach in the clinical management of drug-induced GO, reversing the fibrotic changes.

Individualized digitally designed surgical template for guided soft tissue surgery in cases with severe gingival enlargement: A clinical application in hereditary gingival fibromatosis.

AIM: The purpose of this study was to present the use of computer-assisted periodontal surgery utilizing a novel surgical guide for cases with severe gingival enlargement through a clinical application in a patient with hereditary gingival fibromatosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The treatment plan included nonsurgical periodontal therapy, surgical periodontal treatment, and regular periodontal maintenance before the initiation of orthodontic treatment. Due to the increased soft tissue thickness, a surgical guide with a novel design was fabricated to facilitate the periodontal surgery since most of the patient's teeth were malpositioned and underexposed due to fibromatosis. For this purpose, the patient's intraoral scan was merged with a CBCT image in order to plan surgical excisions based on the anatomy of the teeth and the bone contour. RESULTS: The customized surgical guide facilitated the gingivectomy by controlling not only the shape of the initial incisions but also their orientation toward the level of the cementoenamel junction, improving the efficiency of the clinical time compared with freehand surgery and assisting in the verification of the final soft tissue shape, based on the treatment plan. CONCLUSION: Digital technology through the superimposition of multiple data sets can assist in the diagnosis and multidisciplinary management of cases with gingival fibromatosis. The proposed design of the surgical guide can facilitate soft tissue surgery based on the digital treatment plan, leading to more predictable management of the soft tissue, especially in patients with severe gingival enlargement, as in cases with hereditary gingival fibromatosis or drug-induced gingival overgrowth.

Loss of TBC1D2B causes a progressive neurological disorder with gingival overgrowth.

Biallelic loss-of-function variants in TBC1D2B have been reported in five subjects with cognitive impairment and seizures with or without gingival overgrowth. TBC1D2B belongs to the family of Tre2-Bub2-Cdc16 (TBC)-domain containing RAB-specific GTPase activating proteins (TBC/RABGAPs). Here, we report five new subjects with biallelic TBC1D2B variants, including two siblings, and delineate the molecular and clinical features in the ten subjects known to date. One of the newly reported subjects was compound heterozygous for the TBC1D2B variants c.2584C>T; p.(Arg862Cys) and c.2758C>T; p.(Arg920*). In subject-derived fibroblasts, TBC1D2B mRNA level was similar to control cells, while the TBC1D2B protein amount was reduced by about half. In one of two siblings with a novel c.360+1G>T splice site variant, TBC1D2B transcript analysis revealed aberrantly spliced mRNAs and a drastically reduced TBC1D2B mRNA level in leukocytes. The molecular spectrum included 12 different TBC1D2B variants: seven nonsense, three frameshifts, one splice site, and one missense variant. Out of ten subjects, three had fibrous dysplasia of the mandible, two of which were diagnosed as cherubism. Most subjects developed gingival overgrowth. Half of the subjects had developmental delay. Seizures occurred in 80% of the subjects. Six subjects showed a progressive disease with mental deterioration. Brain imaging revealed cerebral and/or cerebellar atrophy with or without lateral ventricle dilatation. The TBC1D2B disorder is a progressive neurological disease with gingival overgrowth and abnormal mandible morphology. As TBC1D2B has been shown to positively regulate autophagy, defects in autophagy and the endolysosomal system could be associated with neuronal dysfunction and the neurodegenerative disease in the affected individuals.

A recurrent KCNK4 variant in a dominant pedigree with hypertrichosis and gingival fibromatosis syndrome: Variable phenotypic expressivity and insights on patients' dental management.

Abnormal hyperpolarization of the KCNK4 gene, expressed in the nervous system, brain, and periodontal ligament fibroblasts, leads to impaired neurotransmitter sensitivity, cardiac arrhythmias, and endocrine dysfunction, as well as, progressive cell proliferation. De novo gain of function variants in the KCNK4 gene were reported to cause a recognizable syndrome characterized by facial dysmorphism, hypertrichosis, epilepsy, intellectual/developmental delay, and gingival overgrowth (FHEIG, OMIM# 618381). FHEIG is extremely rare with only three reported cases in the literature. Herein, we describe the first inherited KCNK4 variant (c.730G>C, p.Ala244Pro) in an Egyptian boy and his mother. Variable phenotypic expressivity was noted as the patient presented with the full-blown picture of the syndrome while the mother presented only with hypertrichosis and gingival overgrowth without any neurological manifestations. The c.730G>C (p.Ala244Pro) variant was described before in a single patient and when comparing the phenotype with our patient, a phenotype-genotype correlation seems likely. Atrial fibrillation and joint laxity are new associated findings noted in our patient extending the clinical phenotype of the syndrome. Dental management was offered to the affected boy and a dramatic improvement was noted as the patient regained his smile, restored the mastication function, and resumed his psychological stability.

Gingivectomy with Diode Laser Versus the Conventional Scalpel Surgery and Nonsurgical Periodontal Therapy in Treatment of Orthodontic Treatment-Induced Gingival Enlargement: A Systematic Review.

Background and objective: Some studies support the superiority of diode laser gingivectomy to scalpel surgery and nonsurgical treatments. However, a systematic review on this topic is lacking. This study aimed to compare gingivectomy with diode laser versus the conventional scalpel surgery and nonsurgical periodontal therapy (NSPT) in the treatment of orthodontic treatment-induced gingival enlargement (GE). Materials and methods: In this systematic review, an electronic search of the relevant literature was conducted in Web of Science, Medline/PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and ProQuest with no language restriction. Randomized clinical trials published between 1985 and 2020 on comparative treatment of orthodontic treatment-induced GE by diode laser gingivectomy and scalpel surgery or NSPT regarding intraoperative and postoperative bleeding and/or pain were included. Risk of bias was assessed by the Cochrane 1 tool. Results: Of the initially retrieved 288 articles, 40 were duplicates and excluded; 236 articles were excluded following title and abstract screening, and 5 others were excluded following full-text assessment. Finally, 7 studies underwent systematic review. In the risk-of-bias assessment, 5 studies scored 2, and 2 studies scored 3 out of 6. Intraoperative and postoperative bleeding and pain were found to be significantly lower in the laser group. Conclusions: Within the limitations of this systematic review and with respect to the quality of evidence, the present results revealed lower level of pain and bleeding in diode laser gingivectomy compared with the conventional scalpel surgery and NSPT for treatment of orthodontic treatment-induced GE.

Enhancement of receptor-mediated calcium responses by phenytoin through the suppression of calcium excretion in human gingival fibroblasts.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Gingival overgrowth caused by phenytoin is proposed to be associated with Ca2+ signaling; however, the mechanisms that increase the intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+ ]i ) are controversial. The current study aimed to elucidate the mechanism underlying the phenytoin-induced increase in [Ca2+ ]i in human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs). METHODS: Effects of 100 µM phenytoin on [Ca2+ ]i in HGFs were examined at the single-cell level using fluorescence images of fura-2 captured by an imaging system consisting of an EM-CCD camera coupled to an inverted fluorescence microscope at room temperature. RESULTS: Exposure of HGFs to 100 µM phenytoin induced a transient increase in [Ca2+ ]i in the absence of extracellular Ca2+ , indicating that the phenytoin-induced increase in [Ca2+ ]i does not require an influx of extracellular Ca2+ . In addition, phenytoin increased [Ca2+ ]i in HGFs depleted of intracellular Ca2+ stores by thapsigargin, indicating that neither Ca2+ release from stores nor inhibition of Ca2+ uptake is involved. Furthermore, the phenytoin-induced [Ca2+ ]i elevation was reduced to 18.8% in the absence of extracellular Na+ , and [Ca2+ ]i elevation upon removal of extracellular Na+ was reduced to 25.9% in the presence of phenytoin. These results imply that phenytoin increases [Ca2+ ]i of HGFs by suppressing the Na+ /Ca2+ exchanger. Suppression of intracellular Ca2+ excretion is thought to enhance the Ca2+ responses induced by various stimuli. Analysis at the single-cell level showed that stimulation with 1 µM ATP or 3 µM histamine increased [Ca2+ ]i in 20-50% of cells, and [Ca2+ ]i increased in many unresponsive cells in the presence of phenytoin. CONCLUSION: Our findings demonstrate that phenytoin induced increase in [Ca2+ ]i by the inhibition of Ca2+ efflux in HGFs. It was also found that phenytoin strongly enhanced small Ca2+ responses induced by stimulation with a low concentration of ATP or histamine by inhibiting Ca2+ efflux. These findings suggest a possibility that phenytoin causes drug-induced gingival overgrowth by interacting with inflammatory bioactive substances in the gingiva.

The PTEN hamartoma tumor syndrome: how oral clinicians may save lives.

INTRODUCTION: Patients with the PTEN hamartoma tumor syndrome (PHTS) have an 81%-90% cumulative lifetime risk of developing cancer. Around 90% of these patients have recognizable oral features. Receiving a diagnosis may save these patients' lives. This is the first presentation of a family with the PHTS diagnosis with focus on the oral and periodontal findings and treatments. CASE PRESENTATION: All three children (one son and two daughters) inherited the same heterozygous variant in the PTEN gene from their father. Gingival overgrowth was observed in all patients in addition to macrocephaly. Other findings included fissured tongue, high arched palate, papules, and trichilemmomas. The father had experienced severe tooth loss. Surgery was performed to treat the gingival overgrowth and periodontal pockets; however, the treatment was characterized by multiple recurrences of the overgrowth. CONCLUSIONS: Oral changes, macrocephaly, tumors, and/or a family history of benign or malignant lesions are important features that oral clinicians should be aware of for a possible PHTS diagnosis. Patients suspected of having PHTS should be referred to a medical practitioner, specifically a geneticist, for further diagnostic investigations. The periodontal problems seemed to be difficult to control for these patients. They will likely need an active and frequent maintenance therapy to control the persistent inflammation and gingival overgrowth. In addition, they need a thorough monitoring for benign or malignant changes in the orofacial regions. Why are these cases new information? Oral features are found in 90% of the cases with the PHTS diagnosis. The periodontal findings showed a persistent recurrence of gingival overgrowth with a strong probability of serious periodontal diseases. What are the keys to successful management of these cases? A suspicion of a PHTS diagnosis with a referral to a medical practitioner, specifically a geneticist, for complete workup may help save these patients' lives. Close monitoring during maintenance therapy with re-treatment as needed to prevent further periodontal complications. Continued monitoring and treatment throughout the patient's lifetime for development of recurrent or new, benign or malignant lesions at relevant sites. What are the primary limitations to success in these cases? A failure to identify the PHTS syndrome with the accompanying oral and periodontal complications. Complications may lead to a delay in appropriate treatment. Inability to control the persistent gingival overgrowth and a deteriorating periodontal condition. A failure to discover benign and malignant lesions in the orofacial region.

Wound healing effect of a one-week Aloe Vera mouthwash: a pilot study / Efeito de reparação tecidual de uma semana de enxaguante bucal de Aloe Vera: um estudo piloto

Aloe Vera, a perennial Liliaceae plant, has medical, cosmetic, and wound-healing properties. Aloe vera has antioxidant, anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, and regenerative effects. Glucommannan increases collagen synthesis and aids healing after ginivectomy treatment. Natural mouthwashes may offer gingival wound healing efficacy with reduced side-effects when compared to Chlorhexidine. Objective: the objective of this clinical study was to compare the effects on wound healing of a one-week Aloe vera mouthwash with chlorhexidine mouthwash before gingivectomy surgical therapy. Material and Methods:a total of 45 individuals experiencing inflammatory gingival enlargement were included in the study. They underwent professional mechanical plaque removal and were then randomly divided into three groups. In group I, comprising 15 patients, participants were advised to utilize 100% Aloe vera juice as a mouthwash twice daily. Group II, also consisting of 15 patients, was instructed to use Chlorhexidine (0.2%) mouthwash twice daily. The Control group, which consisted of 15 patients, was recommended to use a placebo mouth rinse in addition to mechanical plaque removal. During the second visit, which occurred one week after the initial visit, the enlarged gingival tissue was surgically removed through scalpel gingivectomy. Immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis was performed on the excised tissue to measure the l evels of fibroblast growth factor-2. Results: when compared to the control group, Aloe vera showed significant differences regarding the expression of fibroblast growth factor-2(FGF-2), and highly significant differences in angiogenesis. At the same time, there were substantial differences in angiogenesis w ith no significant differences in the expression of FGF2 between Chlorhexidine and control groups. Conclusion: aloe vera has exhibited potential wound-healing effects as i t s ignificantly affected the IHC expression of FGF2 and angiogenesis when used as an adjunct to plaque control before gingivectomy surgical therapy (AU)

Aloe Vera, uma planta perene de Liliaceae, tem propriedades médicas, cosméticas e cicatrizantes. Aloe vera tem efeitos antioxidantes, anticancerígenos, antidiabéticos e regenerativos. O glucomanano aumenta a síntese de colágeno e auxilia na cicatrização a pós o tratamento de gengivectomia. Enxaguatórios bucais naturais podem oferecer efi cácia na reparação de feridas gengivais com efeitos colaterais reduzidos quando comparados à clorexidina. Objetivo:O objetivo deste estudo clínico foi comparar os efeitos na cicatrização de feridas de uma semana de enxaguatório bucal de Aloe vera com clorexidina antes da terapia cirúrgica de gengivectomia. Material e Métodos: um total de 45 indivíduos com aumento gengival inflamatório foram incluídos no estudo. Eles foram submetidos à remoção mecânica profissional da placa e foramdivididos aleatoriamente em três grupos. No grupo I, composto por 15 pacientes, os participantes foram orientados a utilizar 100% de suco de Aloe vera como enxaguante bucal duas vezes ao dia. O grupo II, também composto por 15 pacientes, foi instruído a usar enxaguante bucal com clorexidina (0,2%) duas vezes ao dia. O grupo controle, composto por 15 pacientes, foi recomendado o uso de enxaguatório bucal placebo além da remoção mecânica da placa. Durante a segunda visita, que ocorreu uma semana após a visita inicial, o tecido gengival aumentado foi removido cirurgicamente por meio de gengivectomia com bisturi. A análise imuno-histoquímica (IHC) foi realizada no tecido excisado para medir os níveis do fator de crescimento de fibroblastos-2 (FGF-2). Resultados: quando comparado ao grupo controle, o Aloe vera apresentou diferenças significativas em relação àexpressão do FGF-2, e diferenças altamente significativas na angiogênese. Ao mesmo tempo, houve diferenças substanciais na angiogênese, sem diferenças significativas na expressão de FGF-2 entre a clorexidina e os grupos controle. Conclusão: Aloe vera exibiu potenciais efeitos de cicatrização de feridas, pois afetou significativamente a expressão IHC de FGF-2 e a angiogênese quando usada como adjuvante no controle de placa antes da terapia cirúrgica de gengivectomia (AU)

Colágeno tipo I en el agrandamiento gingival inducido por tratamiento ortodóntico: un estudio inmunohistoquímico piloto / Type I Collagen in Gingival Overgrowth Induced by Orthodontic Treatment: A Pilot Immunohistochemical Study / Colágeno do tipo I no aumento gengival induzido por tratamento ortodôntico: um estudo imuno-histoquímico piloto

el tratamiento ortodóntico es responsable del agrandamiento gingival (ag), una condición clínica caracterizada por el crecimiento patológico, difuso o localizado del tejido gingival. La acumulación excesiva de la matriz extracelular (mec), incluyendo el colágeno tipo I, parece contribuir a las manifestaciones patológicas del ag. El objetivo del artículo es identificar y describir la distribución del colágeno tipo I en el tejido gingival de pacientes con ag por ortodoncia fija. Materiales y métodos: estudio de tipo descriptivo que analizó los tejidos gingivales de sujetos diagnosticados con ag portadores de ortodoncia (test, n = 5) e individuos periodontalmente sanos (control, n = 5). Las muestras se obtuvieron mediante gingivectomía. Todas las biopsias fueron fijadas, incluidas en parafina, cortadas y analizadas por medio de la coloración rojo picrosirius/verde rápido, con el propósito de distinguir las fibras de colágeno. Mediante una reacción inmunohistoquímica, el colágeno tipo I fue identificado con anticuerpo monoclonal. Resultados: en los pacientes con ag por tratamiento ortodóntico, se identificó un tejido epitelial hiperplásico con aumento evidente de las prolongaciones epiteliales y un tejido conectivo con abundantes haces de fibras de colágenos, principalmente en la lámina basal y la zona subyacente. Las fibras de colágeno tipo I en los tejidos de pacientes con ag por ortodoncia fueron gruesas de aspecto desorganizado, con una tinción inmunohistoquímica intensa, en comparación con las fibras del grupo control. Conclusiones: el aumento de fibras de colágenos, en especial de colágeno de tipo I, es un hallazgo histológico que caracteriza a los pacientes con ag por ortodoncia fija.

Orthodontic treatment is responsible for gingival overgrowth (go), a clinical condition charac-terized by pathological, diffuse, or localized growth of gingival tissue. Excessive accumulation of the extra-cellular matrix, including type I collagen, contributes to the pathological manifestations of go. The objective of this study is to identify and describe the distribution of type I collagen in the gingival tissue of patients with go because of fixed orthodontics. Materials and Methods: A descriptive study that analyzed the gingival tissues of subjects diagnosed with go with orthodontic (test, n = 5) and periodontally healthy individuals (control, n = 5). The samples were obtained by gingivectomy. All the biopsies were fixed, embedded in paraf-fin, and cut and analyzed using picrosirius red/fast green staining, in order to distinguish the collagen fiber. By means of an immunohistochemical reaction, type I collagen was identified with a monoclonal antibody. Results: A hyperplastic epithelial tissue was identified with an evident increase in epithelial processes and connective tissue with abundant bundles of collagen fiber, mainly in the basal lamina and the underlying area in patients with go because of orthodontic treatment. Type I collagen fiber in the tissues of patients with orthodontic go were thick and disorganized in appearance with intense immunohistochemical stain-ing, compared to the fibers of the control group. Conclusions:The increase in collagen fibers, particularly type I collagen, is a histological finding that characterizes patients with go because of fixed orthodontics.

• tratamento ortodôntico é responsável pelo aumento gengival (ag), uma condição clínica caracterizada pelo crescimento patológico difuso ou localizado do tecido gengival. O acúmulo excessivo de matriz extracelular (mec), incluindo colágeno tipo I, parece contribuir para as manifestações patoló-gicas do ag. O objetivo deste trabalho é identificar e descrever a distribuição do colágeno do tipo I no tecido gengival de pacientes com AG devido à ortodontia fixa. Materiais e métodos: estudo descritivo que analisou os tecidos gengivais de indivíduos diagnosticados com ag em uso de ortodontia (teste, n = 5) e indivíduos periodontalmente saudáveis (controle, n = 5). As amostras foram obtidas por gengivectomia. Todas as biópsias foram fixadas, embebidas em parafina, cortadas e analisadas com coloração picrosirius vermelho/verde rápido, a fim de distinguir as fibras colágenas. Usando uma reação imuno-histoquímica, o colágeno tipo I foi identificado com anticorpo monoclonal. Resultados: em pacientes com ag devido ao tratamento ortodôntico, foi identificado tecido epitelial hiperplásico com evidente aumento das exten-sões epiteliais e tecido conjuntivo com abundantes feixes de fibras colágenas, principalmente na lâmina basal e região subjacente. As fibras de colágeno tipo I em tecidos de pacientes com ag ortodôntico eram espessas com aspecto desorganizado e intensa coloração imuno-histoquímica, em comparação com as fibras do grupo controle. Conclusões: o aumento das fibras colágenas, principalmente do colágeno do tipo I, é um achado histológico que caracteriza os pacientes com ag devido à ortodontia fixa.

Biallelic frameshift variant in the TBC1D2B gene in two siblings with progressive gingival overgrowth, fibrous dysplasia of face, and mental deterioration.

Biallelic loss-of-function variants in the TBC1D2B gene were recently reported as a cause of a neurodevelopmental disorder with seizures and gingival overgrowth. Here, we report two male siblings with the similar clinical characteristics. They started with gingival overgrowth and bilateral growth of soft tissues in the malar region at 3 years of age, which evolved with significant maxillary hypertrophy and compression of the brainstem due to fibrous dysplasia of facial bones. After disease evolution, they presented with mental deterioration, limb tremors, and gait ataxia. One of them also presented with seizures. Whole exome sequencing revealed a novel biallelic frameshift variant [c.595del; p.(Val199Trpfs*22)] in the TBC1D2B gene in both patients, which was confirmed and found in heterozygous state in each of their parents. There are strong similarities in clinical characteristics, age of onset, and evolution between the patients described here and cases reported in the literature, including cherubism-like phenotype with progressive gingival overgrowth and seizures. This is the fourth family in the world in which a biallelic loss-of-function variant in the TBC1D2B gene is associated with this phenotype. These results support that loss of TBC1D2B is the cause of this rare condition.

Evaluation of the botulinum toxin effects in the correction of gummy smile 32 weeks after application / Avaliação dos efeitos da toxina botulínica na correção do sorriso gengival 32 semanas pós-aplicação

INTRODUCTION: The use of botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) to correct gummy smile has become popular in recent years. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of BTX-A application in the correction of gummy smile 2 and 32 weeks after application. METHODS: The sample comprised 35 patients (30 female, 5 male) at a mean age of 25.51 years (±5.59) with gummy smile due to muscular hyperfunction. In each patient, 2U of botulinum toxin was applied in the levator labii superioris alaeque nasi, 2 mm from the nasolabial fold. Photographs of spontaneous smiles were taken at 3 stages: before, 2 and 32 weeks after BTX application. Measurements of the gingival display were performed with the Radioface Studio 2 Software, and the calibration used the actual size of the right maxillary central incisor. Comparison of the three stages evaluated was performed with repeated measures ANOVA and Tukey tests. RESULTS: Gingival display decreased significantly 2 weeks after BTX-A application and increased after 32 weeks but did not return to the initial value. CONCLUSION: There was a significant improvement in gummy smile 2 weeks after botulinum toxin application, and a significant relapse in the gingival display after 32 weeks, however not returning to baseline values.

INTRODUÇÃO: A toxina botulínica tipo A (BTX-A) tem se tornado popular na correção do sorriso gengival nos últimos anos. OBJETIVO: Avaliar os efeitos da aplicação de BTX-A na correção do sorriso gengival 2 e 32 semanas após a aplicação. MÉTODOS: A amostra compreendeu 35 pacientes (30 mulheres, 5 homens) com uma idade inicial média 25,51 anos (±5,59) portadores de sorriso gengival devido à hiperfunção muscular. Em cada paciente foi aplicado 2U de BTX-A no músculo elevador superior da asa do nariz, 2 mm a partir da dobra nasolabial. Foram feitas fotografias dos sorrisos espontâneos dos pacientes em 3 fases: antes, 2 e 32 semanas após a aplicação de BTX-A. As medidas da exposição gengival foram feitas com o Software Radioface Studio 2, e a calibração utilizou o tamanho real do incisive central superior direito. A comparação das 3 fases foi feita com ANOVA de medidas repetidas e teste de Tukey. RESULTADOS: A exposição gengival diminuiu significantemente 2 semanas após a aplicação e aumentou novamente após 32 semanas, mas não retornando aos valores iniciais. CONCLUSÃO: Houve uma melhora significante no sorriso gengival 2 semanas após a aplicação de toxina Botulínica, e uma recidiva significante após 32 semanas, mas não retornando aos valores iniciais.

Idiopathic Gingival Fibromatosis in a Pediatric Patient.

Idiopathic gingival fibromatosis (IGF) is a rare, benign, slow-growing proliferation of the gingival tissues involving both maxillary and mandibular gingiva. It is exacerbated during the eruptive phase of both primary and permanent dentitions. The purpose of this article is to report the case of a 10-year-old boy who presented with IGF whose gingival enlargement covered the occlusal surfaces of many teeth and displaced the erupting dentition, compromising the patient's cosmetics, function, speech and development. The treatment involved gingivectomy and gingivoplasty, combining both surgical and laser methods. The case showed remarkable esthetic and functional im provement, without signs of recurrence one year post-treatment.

Protein carbonylation associated with nickel liberation in orthodontic gingival overgrowth.

OBJECTIVE: To determine nickel levels and their impact on protein carbonylation in gum samples from patients with gingival overgrowth by orthodontic treatment. DESIGN: A retrospective observational study with 33 patients divided into three groups. Group 1 patients with gingival overgrowth by orthodontic appliances; group 2 patients without gingival overgrowth but with a history of orthodontic treatment; group 3 patients without overgrowth and history of orthodontic appliances. Nickel level in gingiva samples was measured by atomic absorption while protein carbonylation was determined by Western Blot. Furthermore, three proteins were identified in carbonylated protein bands by mass spectrometry. RESULTS: Statistically significant differences (p < 0,05) in tissue nickel levels among groups were established (nickel levels group 1: 1.33 ± 1.52; group 2: 0.33 ± 0.44; group 3: 0.20 ± 0.22 µg Ni/g tissue). Protein carbonylation was higher in patients with gingival enlargement (group 1) and history of appliance use (group 2) than controls (group 3). It was observed that band A of the Western blots presented the highest intensity (Rf 0.23) with an average intensity of 4.133.830 ± 1.958.569 for group 1; 4.420.146 ± 1.594.679 for group 2 and 2.110. 727 ± 1.640.721 for group 3. Also, the proteins Teneurin-4, Bromodomain adjacent to zinc finger domain protein 2B, Lysine-specific demethylase 5B, and Serum albumin, were identified from oxidized bands. CONCLUSIONS: The gum of patients with gingival overgrowth by orthodontic appliances contains higher nickel residues and carbonylation of its proteins.

[A woman with gingival enlargement]. / Een vrouw met gezwollen tandvlees.

A 65-year-old female complained of diffuse and rapidly progressive gingival enlargement. Gingival overgrowth can be caused by medication, infections or systemic diseases. In case of generalized, quickly progressive gingival enlargement, acute myeloid leukemia should be considered. Blood results showed an acute myelomonocytic leukemia. Treating the leukemia resolved the symptoms.

Treatment of calcium channel blocker-induced gingival overgrowth without modifying medication.

Gingival overgrowth is a common side effect of calcium channel blockers used in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. While controversial, management includes discontinuing the calcium channel blocker. We report the case of a 66-year-old Japanese man with hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus who was diagnosed with severe periodontitis covering almost all the teeth. The patient had been on nifedipine (40 mg/day) and amlodipine (10 mg/day) medication for 5 years. With his physician's consent, nifedipine was discontinued during his treatment for periodontitis, which consisted of oral hygiene instructions and scaling and root planing on all areas. Gingivectomy was performed on the areas of hard fibrous swelling. Nifedipine was resumed during periodontal treatment when the patient's hypertension worsened. His periodontal scores improved when he resumed treatment. We report that significant improvement in gingival overgrowth can occur with basic periodontal treatment, surgery and sustained intensive follow-up without adjusting calcium channel blockers.

Role of IL-6 and STAT3 signaling in dihydropyridine-induced gingival overgrowth fibroblasts.

OBJECTIVES: This study analyzed the role of the interleukin (IL)-6/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pathway in dihydropyridine-induced gingival overgrowth (DIGO) fibroblasts. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Tissue samples were obtained through surgical dissection from five DIGO patients and five healthy individuals. Cell cultures were conditioned with nifedipine (Nif) (0.34 µM) and stimulated with IL-1ß (10 ng/ml) to clarify whether IL-6 upregulates extracellular matrix overproduction or has an impact on the cell proliferation rate of DIGO fibroblasts. STAT3 was knocked down using short hairpin (sh)RNA to determine its role in collagen (Col) type I alpha 1 (Colα1(I)) synthesis. RESULTS: Results showed that phosphorylated (p)STAT3 nuclear translocation was activated by a simulated autocrine concentration (50 ng/ml) of IL-6, and application of an anti-IL-6 antibody significantly decreased the pSTAT3/STAT3 ratio in DIGO fibroblasts. STAT3 knockdown significantly decreased STAT3 and Colα1(I) expressions in DIGO cells. DIGO tissues presented stronger proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) expression than did healthy individuals under the effect of IL-1ß/Nif treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Gingival inflammation (e.g., IL-1ß) and taking dihydropyridine (e.g., Nif) may additively stimulate Col overproduction through the IL-6-STAT3-Colα1(I) cascade in DIGO cells. IL-6-STAT3 signaling may be considered a target for the control of DIGO.

Hereditary gingival fibromatosis in children: a systematic review of the literature.

OBJECTIVES: Hereditary gingival fibromatosis (HGF) is an uncommon, inherited condition with slow and progressive fibrous hyperplasia of the gingiva. Due to its association with mastication, speech, and occlusion problems, early diagnosis is important. We sought to summarize the available data regarding the epidemiology, clinical characteristics, and outcomes of children with HGF (< 18 years). METHODS: A systematic literature review of the MEDLINE and Cochrane Library databases was conducted with respect to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement (end-of-search date: March 1, 2019). RESULTS: A total of 99 articles reporting on 146 patients were included. The mean age was 10.82 ± 3.93 years, and generalized gingival enlargement was seen in 97.16% (95% CI 92.69 to 99.14). Jaw, gingival, and teeth abnormalities; poor oral hygiene; eating; or speech difficulties were typical HGF-induced, while 60.90% had extraoral manifestations (95% CI 52.41 to 68.78). The disease was most commonly inherited in an autosomal dominant manner (88.41%, 95% CI 78.5 to 94.26), and about one-third of the patients had syndromic HGF (33.85%, 95% CI 23.50 to 46.00). Gingivectomy was performed in the majority of cases (91.15%, 95% CI 84.31 to 95.29), and recurrence was seen in 33.85% (95% CI 23.50 to 46.00). CONCLUSION: HGF should be suspected in children with nodularity and gingival fibrosis, teeth abnormalities, or jaw distortion. Family history can help to establish the diagnosis. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: More cases should focus on longer-term follow-up after gingivectomy as disease recurrence is not uncommon.