GINGIVAL HYPERPLASIA

DURING VERAPAMIL THERAPY IN HYPERTENSIVE PATIENTS.

Abstract

Objective: Calcium ion plays an important role in gingival hyperplasia due to
its effects on hemostatic balance of epithelial differentiation and apoptosis. It is hypothesized that non inflamed gingival
fibroblasts are less active and do not respond to circulating drugs. While the fibroblasts within inflamed tissue are in an
active state. Hence a study was conducted to investigate and assess the relationship between oral hygiene and severity
of gingival hyperplasia in hypertensive patients receiving verapamil. Design of study : In the present comparative
investigation, clinical periodontal parameters were determined. Material & Methods: Thirty hypertensive patients who
were taking verapamil 240 mg/day in divided doses selected randomly. Subjects were divided in to HEL groups. A
gingival enlargement score was assessed for each patient by using hyper plastic index, while using plaque index
assessed the oral hygiene status. Results: There were highly significant differences between test groups E and L, when
they were compared with group H (Healthy group). Mean plaque index and hyper plastic index varied between test
groups H, E and L. The differences showed statistical high significance. Conclusions: Oral hygiene plays a decisive
role in the development of gingival hyperplasia and the incidence can be controlled successfully by meticulous
professional and individual oral hygiene.