| Gingival inflammation due to foreign bodies in connective tissues is termed Foreign Body Gingivitis (FBG). It is not commonly recognized by clinicians and has not been fully described in the literature. This thesis describes the demographic, clinical, and histopathological findings in 61 cases of FBG. Clinical and histologic criteria for its diagnosis are proposed. FBG presented most frequently as a red or red-and-white painful chronic lesion. It was more common in females and occurred at a mean age of 48. Microscopically, foreign bodies were seen in moderate to severe inflammation which was frequently granulomatous and sometimes lichenoid. The foreign bodies were examined by energy-dispersive x-ray microanalysis (EDX) to identify their elemental composition and potential source. This analysis indicated most foreign bodies were of probable dental material origin, usually abrasives. It is postulated that they are iatrogenically introduced during routine dental procedures. |
