Final answer:
The anticonvulsant drug phenytoin is known to cause gingival hyperplasia. This side effect can be managed and prevented through good oral hygiene and regular dental care.
Step-by-step explanation:
The anticonvulsant drug phenytoin is known to cause gingival hyperplasia. Phenytoin, which is commonly prescribed to treat epilepsy, can cause excessive growth of gum tissues, resulting in gingival overgrowth.
This condition occurs as a side effect of long-term phenytoin use, particularly in individuals with poor oral hygiene or genetic predisposition. Gingival hyperplasia can cause aesthetic concerns, difficulty in maintaining oral hygiene, and in severe cases, can even lead to complications such as gum inflammation and tooth mobility.
Patients taking phenytoin should maintain rigorous oral hygiene practices and seek regular dental care to manage and prevent gingival hyperplasia.