Acute Necrotizing Periodontal Disease

Bacterial growths along gum linings that persist over time can create a breeding ground for gum diseases to develop. Once infection sets in, the gums and teeth may begin to deteriorate. Acute necrotizing periodontal disease is an extreme form of gum disease that requires aggressive treatment and daily dental care.

Identification

• Periodontal disease is a condition in which the gums in the mouth begin to deteriorate. As gums are the tissues that house the teeth, tooth loss can result if this condition is left untreated. Acute necrotizing periodontal disease is a more advanced form in which the ligaments, bones and tissues surrounding the teeth begin to die off. This condition is most prevalent in individuals who are malnourished, suffer from HIV infection or have some form of immune system disorder.

Effects

• Acute necrotizing periodontal disease--also known as "trench mouth"--is caused by an infection that's lodged within the mouth's gum tissues. The term "trench mouth" originates from World War I where this condition was found in a large number of the soldiers. The high degree of infection present gives rise to bad breath odors. More advanced stages are apparent in cases where the gums start to recede and teeth begin to loosen. Eventually food particles and tartar become embedded around the teeth, causing abscesses to form.

Gingivitis

• Acute necrotizing periodontal disease begins with gingivitis, a condition in which the gum pockets between the teeth become inflamed. This inflammation is caused by plaque and tartar buildups that result from improper dental care or over-vigorous brushing and flossing of the teeth. Gingivitis can be treated and prevented through a daily regimen of gentle brushing and flossing. When left unattended, inflammation in the gums can become infected, which increases the risk for gum disease.

Symptoms

• Painful gums are one of the common signs of acute necrotizing periodontal disease. Other symptoms include fatigue, pain and fever. Individuals who have this disease may see a redness or a swelling about the gums, as well as a bleeding of the gums. Gum erosions may appear grayish as dead layers of tissue start to appear. Pain is often present when chewing or swallowing food. The bacteria growing inside gum tissues trigger the immune system causing swollen lymph nodes to appear in the neck. Individuals who smoke, are prone to viral infections and practice poor dietary habits are at risk of contracting this condition. Prolonged periods of stress can also contribute to its development.

Treatment

• Acute necrotizing periodontal disease is usually easy for physicians to spot due to the foul odor caused by bacterial growths in the mouth. The severity of the condition will determine the treatment approach needed. Dead tissue layers may need to be scaled or scraped off to prevent further bacterial growth. A professional dental cleaning may also be needed. Physicians can prescribe antibiotics such as tetracycline, amoxicillin or erythromycin to kill off whatever infection is present in the gums. Daily brushings and flossing is recommended along with repeated rinsing with a hydrogen peroxide solution.