Objectives: Drug-induced gingival overgrowth is a side effect associated principally with 3 types of drugs: anticonvulsant, immunosuppressant, and calcium channel blockers as nifedipine, verapamil, or diltiazem We investigated the association between intake of such drugs and periodontal health in a population-based analysis.

Methods: We conducted a cross sectional epidemiological investigation involving 4290 subjects aged 20 – 80 years who participated in the population-based SHIP (Study of Health in Pomerania). Clinical, laboratory and anamnestic data were assessed to determinate the clinical and dental status in the general population. Periodontal risk factors were recorded in an extensive interview and questionnaire. In a matched pair study recruited from the SHIP population, 456 subjects using calcium antagonists and 456 without were compared for periodontal parameters in a matched pair study.

Results: Subjects taking Ca blocking drugs showed significantly greater probing depth than their matched counterparts (% extent p = 0.0002, severity (mm) p = 0.0001). No differences were found in attachment loss or the number of teeth. Smokers are more affected than nonsmokers.

Conclusions: Intake of calcium antagonists is associated with more higher values of probing depth as a consequence of gingival overgrowth without severe signs of periodontal disease. However deeper pockets if untreated are probably a prerequisite for building more subgingival plaque and may, therefore, lead to late expression of periodontal disease.

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