Gingival Hyperplasia (GH)

Gingival hyperplasia, also called gingival enlargement is an increase in the size of the gingiva. It is a common feature of gingival disease. Gingival enlargement can be caused by a number of factors, including inflammatory conditions and the side effects of certain medications. The treatment is based on the cause.

Gingival enlargement is commonly seen in Boxer dogs and other brachycephalic breeds, and in the English Springer Spaniel. It usually starts around middle age and progresses. Some areas of the gingiva can become quite large but have only a small attachment to the rest of the gingiva, and it may completely cover the teeth.