Q: What is trench mouth?
A: Its name born from the horrible conditions of World War I, trench mouth is a painful form of gum infection. Among its symptoms are a grayish film on the gums, large ulcers between the teeth, profuse gum bleeding in response to even minor pressure or irritation, a constant foul taste in the mouth and equally foul breath. Factors that contribute to its development are poor nutrition combined with poor oral hygiene, emotional stress, smoking and any other infection that exists in the mouth or throat.
The goal of treatment for trench mouth is to eliminate the infection and relieve the symptoms. Treatment may include antibiotics. A salt-water rinse may be recommended to soothe the gums. A thorough teeth cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist may also be recommended. A rigorous regimen of home oral hygiene--brushing and flossing-is essential to recovery.
By the way, if you think the term "trench mouth" is unpleasant, consider that the condition is more technically called "acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis." The good news is the infection usually responds well to treatment. The bad news is if left untreated, it can spread to the cheeks, lips and jawbone. Talk with your dentist about ways to keep infection out of your mouth.
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