Self-Inflicted Gingival Injury Due to Habitual Fingernail Scratching: A Case Report with a 1-Year Follow Up

Injuries to oral soft-tissues can occur due to accidental, iatrogenic, and factitious traumas. Traumatic lesions, whether chemical, physical, or thermal in nature, are among the most common in the mouth. A type of physical injury to the gingival tissues is self-inflicted. Sometimes the lesions are termed gingivitis artefacta. Self-inflicted gingival injuries in children and adolescents can occur as a result of accidental trauma, premeditated infliction, or chronic habits such as fingernail biting, digit sucking, or sucking on objects such as pens, pencils or pacifiers. The purpose of this case report was to illustrate the destructive nature of the habit and to describe the successful treatment of this case. A 14-year-old girl with moderate pain, gingival bleeding and recession in the anterior mandibulary region was admitted to periodontology clinic. Upon questioning, the patient readily admitted traumatizing her gingiva with her fingernail. Treatment consisted of oral hygiene instruction, mechanical debridement, psychological support and surgical periodontal treatment. Postoperatively, complete root coverage, gains in clinical attachment levels, and highly significant increases in the width of keratinized gingiva were observed. This case report shows that it is possible to treat gingival injury and maintain the periodontal health of a patient with destructive habit. Patient compliance, regular dental follow-ups, and psychological support may be useful in stabilizing the periodontal condition of these patients. Dentists must be aware that self-inflicted gingival injury, although thought to be uncommon, is quite widespread.