Which action is appropriate when phenytoin causes gingival hyperplasia?

Which action is appropriate when phenytoin causes gingival hyperplasia?

• A. Immediately discontinue phenytoin
• B. Schedule dental hygiene and monitor gingival changes; consider dosage adjustment if needed
• C. Ignore gingival changes
• D. Increase dosage to overcome gum changes

Answer: (B)

Phenytoin-induced gingival hyperplasia is best managed by reducing oral inflammation through good dental hygiene and professional care, while reassessing the medication plan. Meticulous plaque control and regular dental cleanings help minimize irritation that worsens the overgrowth, so scheduling dental hygiene and monitoring gingival changes lets you see whether the hyperplasia improves with better oral care. If the overgrowth persists or is problematic, coordinating with the prescriber to adjust the dose or switch to another anticonvulsant can balance seizure control with a lowering of gum overgrowth. Abruptly stopping phenytoin isn’t appropriate because seizures could recur, and increasing the dose would likely worsen the gingival changes; ignoring the problem isn’t acceptable.

Phenytoin-induced gingival hyperplasia is best managed by reducing oral inflammation through good dental hygiene and professional care, while reassessing the medication plan. Meticulous plaque control and regular dental cleanings help minimize irritation that worsens the overgrowth, so scheduling dental hygiene and monitoring gingival changes lets you see whether the hyperplasia improves with better oral care. If the overgrowth persists or is problematic, coordinating with the prescriber to adjust the dose or switch to another anticonvulsant can balance seizure control with a lowering of gum overgrowth. Abruptly stopping phenytoin isn’t appropriate because seizures could recur, and increasing the dose would likely worsen the gingival changes; ignoring the problem isn’t acceptable.