Trench mouth
Alternative names:
acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis; stomatitis; Vincent's stomatitis
Treatment:
The goals of treatment are cure of the infection and relief of symptoms. Antibiotics may be given if there is a fever.
Good oral hygiene is vital to the treatment of trench mouth. Thorough tooth brushing and flossing must be performed as often as possible, at least twice a day and preferably after each meal and at bedtime. Salt water rinses (one-half teaspoon of salt in one cup of water) may be soothing to sore gums. Hydrogen peroxide, used to rinse or irrigate the gums, is often recommended to remove decayed gum tissue. Over-the-counter pain relievers (analgesics) may be used to reduce discomfort.
Scaling and polishing the teeth (professional cleaning and plaque removal by the dentist or dental hygienist using a variety of tools) is recommended once the gums become less tender. Dental cleaning and examination may be recommended on a regular, frequent basis until the disorder is cleared. Instruction may be needed on oral hygiene, methods to stop smoking, stress reduction, and so on.
Good general health should be maintained. This includes proper nutrition and rest balanced with exercise. Irritants must be avoided, including smoking and hot or spicy foods.
Expectations (prognosis):
The infection usually responds to treatment. The disorder can be quite painful until it is treated. If trench mouth is untreated or treatment is delayed, the infection can spread to the cheeks, lips, or jawbone and destroy these tissues.
Complications:
Calling your health care provider:
Call the dentist if symptoms of trench mouth occur, or if fever or other new symptoms develop in a person with this disorder.
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