What condition may cause gingival hyperplasia as a side effect due to high levels of hormones in pregnancy?

Get ready for the American Board of General Dentistry Exam. Use flashcards, multiple choice questions, hints, and explanations for thorough preparation. Excel in your exam!

Gingival hyperplasia during pregnancy is primarily associated with the hormonal changes that occur in the body. Specifically, elevated levels of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone can lead to an increase in the vascularity and cellularity of the gingival tissues, resulting in gingival overgrowth. This condition is commonly referred to as pregnancy gingivitis and is characterized by swelling, redness, and an increased tendency to bleed.

Diabetes mellitus can complicate oral health but is not directly linked to hormonal changes that specifically cause gingival hyperplasia in a manner comparable to pregnancy. Hypothyroidism typically leads to more systemic effects rather than localized gingival changes, while hyperparathyroidism affects calcium metabolism and may not directly influence gingival hyperplasia caused by hormonal fluctuations. Therefore, the correct understanding here is that none of the conditions listed are directly responsible for gingival hyperplasia due to hormonal levels during pregnancy, which is why "none of the above" is the accurate choice.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy