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Abstract

OBJECTIVES
This study evaluates the prevalence and factors contributing to gingival hyperplasia in orthodontic patients in Peshawar.
METHODOLOGY
A cross-sectional study was conducted at the teaching dental hospital of Peshawar from January to September 2025, involving 300 orthodontic patients aged 15-40 years. Clinical examinations assessed gingival enlargement using the Gingival Overgrowth Index (GOI). Statistical analyses examined associations between gingival hyperplasia and factors such as age, gender, oral hygiene practices, and duration of orthodontic treatment.
RESULTSGingival hyperplasia was noted in 45% of the participants involved in the study. A more detailed analysis revealed that this condition was particularly prevalent among individuals with poor oral hygiene practices, affecting 63% of this group. Additionally, those undergoing treatment for longer than 12 months showed a significant prevalence rate of 54%. When examining the data by gender, it was found that females exhibited a slightly higher incidence of gingival hyperplasia at 48%, compared to 41% in males. This suggests that oral hygiene and treatment duration may play critical roles in developing gingival hyperplasia, which warrants further investigation to understand the underlying mechanisms and potential preventive measures.
CONCLUSION
Gingival hyperplasia is prevalent in nearly half of orthodontic patients, emphasising the importance of rigorous oral hygiene practices and regular professional monitoring during treatment.