For a patient taking phenytoin with gingival hyperplasia, which measure helps limit symptoms?

• A. Periodontal surgery
• B. Good oral hygiene
• C. High-sugar diet
• D. Stop phenytoin

Answer: (B)

Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is the most effective way to limit phenytoin-associated gingival hyperplasia. Plaque buildup and gum inflammation interact with phenytoin’s effect on gingival fibroblasts to promote overgrowth, so reducing plaque through thorough brushing, flossing, and regular dental cleanings helps control or lessen the hyperplasia. Periodontal surgery might be considered if hyperplasia is severe and unresponsive to conservative care, but it’s not the first-line measure for symptom limitation. Stopping phenytoin is a medical decision made with the prescriber and may affect seizure control, so it isn’t an immediate self-management step. A high-sugar diet can worsen overall oral health, so it isn’t helpful in this context.