Trench Mouth Disease

Trench mouth is defined as a painful bacteria infection that affects the mouth and gums. The name trench mouth actually comes from the bacterial infection that inflicted many soldiers during World War I. Trench mouth develops when bad bacteria overtakes the good bacteria that is found naturally in the mouth. Many people with trench mouth suffer from bad breath and painful ulcers in the mouth.

Causes

Trench mouth is caused by an overabundance of bacteria in the mouth. While it is unknown why some people develop trench mouth and others that have the same risk factors do not, there are factors that can increase the likelihood for this condition to develop.

Bad oral hygiene, nutritional deficiencies and AIDS, as well as stress and smoking, can all lead to the onset of trench mouth disease.

Symptoms and Signs

Trench mouth has many symptoms, but the first sign is seriously bad breath and a bad-tasting mouth. Other signs include painful and bleeding gums, as well as redness or swelling of the gums. The gums may also appear to be covered in a gray film that is a result of the gum tissue decaying. Ulcers may also develop between the teeth and gums. The lymph nodes in the neck and head may also swell.

Complications

Untreated trench mouth can cause other more serious complications in patients. Severe pain from trench mouth can be unbearable, and the infection can be spread from the mouth to other areas of the body. Tissue inside the cheeks, lips or jawbones can be lost, and teeth may begin to fall out. Periodontitis may also develop, and dehydration can also occur.

Treatments

Trench mouth can be treated by several means. Antibiotics are often used to eradicate the overgrowth of bacteria, as well as to keep the bacteria from spreading. Topical anesthetics may also be used.

The dentist may choose to treat the condition through cleaning. He may use the process of debridement, which will remove dead gum tissue and clean out any pockets of plaque and tarter from the gum line.

Surgery is another option. However, it is used only to repair extensive damage that has been caused by trench mouth.

Preventatives

Preventing trench mouth is really the best option for dental care. Making good oral hygiene a part of the daily habit is one way to prevent trench mouth disease. Use a good toothpaste and antiseptic mouth rinse to keep your gums protected.

Eat healthy foods including fruits, dairy and vegetables for healthy gums and teeth.

Also, avoid the use of cigarettes and other tobacco products.

References

• Trench Mouth Symptoms
• Mayo Clinic, Trench Mouth