ANUG or Trench Mouth

Mount Trench (ANUG)

ANUG is an acronym for Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis. ANUG is a painful but non-contagious oral infection. It happens when the gum is invaded by bacteria. This infection is also known as Trench Mouth. A painful infection that was first diagnosed among World War I soldiers. These soldiers were stuck in stressful and non-hygienic trenches during the war. Vincent’s disease is also an old common name for ANUG. With ANUG, you need to see a dentist for treatment.

ANUG is Painful

The course of a Trench Mouth is usually short but painful. ANUG does not occur suddenly but pain seem to occur suddenly. Patients tend to complain that the pain came out of nowhere. ANUG patients may have a history of gum bleeding and soreness which is cased by brushing or eating.

Cause of ANUG

There are theories about the cause of ANUG. Including:

  • A history of gingivitis
  • Smoking
  • Neglect
  • Daily Life Stress and Fatigue
  • HIV may need to be considered

ANUG is not Gingivitis

Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gum. Gum inflammation is usually a response to an irritation like the bacterial plaque. With gingivitis, the gum tissue is not invaded by the bacteria. However, with ANUG, the living tissues of the gum are directly invaded by the bacteria.

ANUG is not Acute Herpes

Herpes is related to the ulceration of the gums and the mucosa. Unlike herpes, ANUG is associated with the gums and limited to the gums. Patients with ANUG may experience a low-grade fever. Unlike ANUG, herpes infection is associates with a high-grade fever (38.8°C or higher).

Treatment of ANUG

For the treatment of Trench Mouth find a dentist near you and or a doctor. Treatment of the ANUG can be as painful as the disease. The healing process begins quickly after plaque removal by the dentist. ANUG treatment can consist prescription of:

  • Warm Saline Rinses to Control Bacteria Growth
  • Gentle Cleaning and Use of Mouthwashes such as hydrogen peroxide or chlorhexidine
  • Systemic Pain Killer so Patient can Brush
  • Systemic Antibiotics

ANUG is a serious condition. If left untreated, ANUG can last for a couple of weeks. It may then heal and leave a chronic gum disease. ANUG should be treated. If neglected, it can reoccur and progressively damage the gum tissue. If you are experiencing these signs make an emergency appointment with your dentist.