SHRI sets right dental problem of child

By Our Staff Reporter
Imphal, Jul 11: Shija City Dental Hospital, Keishampat, and Shija Hospitals & Research Institute (SHRI) treated a rare case of Grade III drug-induced gingival overgrowth (abnormal enlargement of gum tissue) in a five-year-old child.
SHRI, in a statement, stated that the child had been suffering from progressive enlargement of the upper and lower gums for nearly four years, making eating, maintaining oral hygiene, and sleeping difficult.
The condition developed as a rare adverse effect of long-term anti-epileptic medication prescribed for a seizure disorder, it said.
As the gingival overgrowth progressed, it began compromising the child's airway and causing difficulty in breathing.
Saying that the child was also unable to eat solid food, relying predominantly on a semi-solid diet, and suffered from frequent gum bleeding, significantly affecting her quality of life, it added the decision to proceed with urgent surgical intervention was made given the severity of the condition and the risk of further complications.
On June 4, 2026, the child underwent an extensive gingivectomy and gingivoplasty, along with MTA direct pulp capping, GIC restoration, and placement of stainless-steel crowns under general anaesthesia, it added.
The surgery was performed by Dr Ningombam Gitson Meitei, Consultant Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon, Dr Takhellambam Arjun Singh, Consultant Pedodontist, Dr Kelvin RK, Consultant Periodontist, who serve at both Shija City Dental Hospital, Keishampat, and Shija Hospitals & Research Institute, Langol with support from the Pediatrics, Neurology, and Anaesthesia teams.
The child recovered well and was discharged in stable condition on 7 June 2026.
Expressing their gratitude, the parents shared that their daughter had struggled with pain and sleepless nights since she was six months old but was finally able to sleep peacefully after the surgery.
They encouraged parents not to ignore abnormal gum enlargement in children receiving long-term anti-epileptic medication and to seek timely medical care.
This case highlights the importance of regular dental monitoring for children on long-term antiepileptic medication, as early detection and timely intervention can prevent severe gingival overgrowth and significantly improve quality of life, it said.