Which medication is associated with increased probing depth in a patient?

The medication associated with increased probing depth in a patient is estrogen. Hormonal changes, particularly those related to estrogen, can have a significant impact on periodontal health. In women, fluctuations in estrogen levels can lead to changes in the gingival tissue, making it more susceptible to inflammation and disease. This is particularly evident during periods such as menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, when the body experiences significant hormonal changes. The increased probing depth reflects the presence of inflammation and potential periodontal disease, which can occur in response to elevated estrogen levels.

In contrast, other medications listed do not have the same effect on probing depth. For instance, penicillin is an antibiotic that targets bacterial infections and does not inherently affect periodontal probing depth. Naproxen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), may actually have some protective effects on periodontal tissues due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) is also an NSAID and is utilized for its pain-relieving effects, without a direct correlation to increased probing depth. Therefore, estrogen is the correct choice as it uniquely influences periodontal health through hormonal mechanisms.