Diagnosis and Management of Hereditary Gingival Fibromatosis in a 9-year-old Girl

Abstract

ABSTRACT Hereditary gingival fibromatosis (HGF) is an uncommon, inherited condition with slow and progressive fibrous hyperplasia of the gingiva. The fibrous nature of the enlargement interferes with eruption, mastication, speech, and occlusion. This condition is more commonly noted during the transition from deciduous to permanent dentition. This can have overbearing effects on the psychology and function of the individual, thus making early diagnosis and precise management important. The conventional mode of treatment includes scalpel gingivectomy (external/internal bevel). In young patients, gingivectomies involving the entire dentition can be a therapeutic challenge. Lasers have proven themselves as viable substitutes for conventional gingival surgeries. The use of Light amplification by the stimulated emission of radiation (LASER) for gingivectomy may also present added advantages such as lack of bleeding, increased patient cooperation, and better compliance. This case report presents the diagnosis and treatment of HGF in a 9-year-old girl emphasizing the unique advantage of LASER in the clinical scenario. CLINICAL RELEVANCE TO INTERDISCIPLINARY DENTISTRY Hereditary gingival fibromatosis (HGF) is a rare condition that is seen associated with the eruption of permanent dentitionThe pediatric dentist normally first diagnoses HGF in children. The management of the same requires an interdisciplinary approach that includes a pedodontist and a periodontistThe treatment of choice which is gingivectomy when done with a scalpel for the entire dentition may raise therapeutic challenges in young patientsLight amplification by the stimulated emission of radiation (LASER) gingivectomy will offer a bloodless, painless surgical field making the child more amenable to gingivectomyLASER gingivectomy delivered by the periodontist under the watchful aegis of a pedodontist will make a right therapeutic choice for the treatment of HGFThe 9-year-old patient was compliant due to the decreased bleeding and time associated with LASER gingivectomyLaser protocol is minimally invasive and has reduced postoperative discomfort and hence is well accepted by pediatric patients and has shown higher levels of predictability.