The term trench mouth started in the summer of 1914 when the First World War broke. This diagnosis is properly identified as acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis or ANUG. It also came to be known simply as necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis or NUG. Much simpler term, though still a formal name is Vincent’s stomatitis. It was called trench mouth because the people who got infected with this the most during that time were the soldiers confined in trenches during combat. Due to lack of oral hygiene when they were away from camp, they developed gum infection and thus later to be dubbed as the trench mouth disease.
Trench mouth is characterized by severe gum pain. Slight pressure on the gums causes gums to bleed. If you notice a gray film on your gums or they become dappled or swollen then it is a sign of the disease. Ulcers flanked by the teeth and gums and experiencing pain while eating and/or swallowing could be an indication of trench mouth. When there is a foul taste in your mouth and you also notice a malodour coming from your mouth, be advised that these are other symptoms of the oral condition. Presence of fever and swollen lymph nodes may also denote trench mouth.
If you notice any of the above signs, it is recommended to seek your dentist’s advice immediately. Symptoms of the trench mouth disease can suddenly progress. Examination of your mouth can let your dentist find out if you have the disease. If the root cause of the condition could not be pointed out, your dentist may direct you to other medical professionals for blood tests and the like. Some medical conditions especially failing immune system like HIV or AIDS can bring about trench mouth.
Poor oral hygiene would be the primary cause of this condition. Your dental health may be put in jeopardy if destructive bacteria grow unhindered creating infection to your gums. When infection starts and is not treated the soonest, there is the tendency of the bacteria eating away on the gum tissue causing your teeth to become loose. Ulcers may appear accounting for pain, bad breath and fetid taste.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with good oral hygiene will certainly help you prevent trench mouth disease. So make sure to always brush, floss and gargle with a mouth rinse every day and have dental check-ups at right intervals or as recommended. You must also avoid tobacco products. It is better to indulge yourself in a healthy, well-balanced lifestyle to keep stress to a minimum level. The above mentioned tips are certainly the best way to prevent trench mouth.
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