What effect does Norvasc have on gum disease?

My gums are puffy and bleed easily. I have my teeth professionally cleaned every 6 months.I floss everyday and brush 3 times daily and have been given a special mouthwash which didn't help. My dentist sent me to a peridontist. He probed on my gums and measured something on each one. He came to the conclusion that Norvasc was making my gums like they are and said for me to ask my GP about changing Norvasc to another BP medicine, one that is not a calcium channel blocker (which Norvasc is). My GP does not know anything about Norvasc having an such an effect on gums and is reluctant to change my BP medicine. The peridontist says that if I don't stop taking Norvasc my gums will only get worse and that if he does surgery on them the condition will return in a few years if I'm still taking Norvasc.

Norvasc has a side effect which causes gingival overgrowth.. their are many medications that cause this effect, including hbp medications and seizure medications. You can not stop the overgrowth.. but can do your best to control it with excellent homecare.. flossing at least 2x per day and brushing with an electric toothbrush such as a sonicare. The effects of the medication can range from mild to severe.. The severity of it will determine whether or not you will need gum surgery. Trimming the gums will remove the excess, but unfortunately, the overgrowth will return.. I would suggest if in your case the overgrowth is severe.. see if there is an alternative medication you can take.. in the mean time excellent home care is key! Good luck

Yes, this can be a possible side effect of Norvasc. If you have never had gum problems before, this is probably the cause. Discuss the severity of the problem with your doctor. He probably can change your medicine or switch you to a lower dose and that might help ease the gum problem. You need to explain to your doctor that if your gum swelling does not go down you will need gum surgery to reduce the overgrowth of your gums.