title: Regression of Calcium Channel Blocker--Induced Gingival Enlargement in the Absence of Periodontal Therapy.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To illustrate the negative effect of calcium channel blocker (CCB) drugs on the gingival tissues and the reversibility of these lesions.
  
  
  METHODS
  The authors examined a forty-eight year-old male patient with drug-induced gingival enlargement associated with diltiazem, a CCB drug. Prior to initiating the proposed periodontal treatment, the patient was advised to consult his physician, for a possible switch to a different anti-hypertensive drug. The patient returned to the clinic three months later with a significant regression of the gingival overgrowth, which was induced by the patient ceasing the prescribed regimen without medical consultation or periodontal intervention.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Although CCBs are effective cardiovascular drugs, they can negatively impact the oral health by promoting gingival overgrowth in some patients. Substitution of these drugs is strongly recommended prior to any periodontal intervention in order to improve prognosis and prevent recurrence, and should be done only by the medical providers.
authors.forename: Rania
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Livada
authors.forename: Wes
authors.initials: W
authors.lastname: Shelton
authors.forename: Paul S
authors.initials: PS
authors.lastname: Bland
authors.forename: Jacob
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Shiloal
mesh_terms: D000959:Antihypertensive Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects; D002121:Calcium Channel Blockers / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D055113:Chronic Periodontitis / Q000150:complications / Q000628:therapy; D012534:Dental Scaling / Q000379:methods; D004110:Diltiazem / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects; D057915:Drug Substitution; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D019214:Gingival Overgrowth / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000517:prevention & control; D006801:Humans; D006852:Hydrochlorothiazide / Q000627:therapeutic use; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009910:Oral Hygiene / Q000193:education; D016745:Root Planing / Q000379:methods
chemical_list: D000959:Antihypertensive Agents; D002121:Calcium Channel Blockers; D006852:Hydrochlorothiazide; D004110:Diltiazem