Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis
Acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis is a painful periodontal condition that should be treated as early on as possible. Although it has distinct symptoms, it is an aggressive form of periodontal disease (also called gum disease).
Acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis
Like the more common form of gingivitis, this form begins at the gumline where the teeth and gums meet. Typically, it is characterized by small sores or ulcers on the gums which are quite painful.
Shortly after the ulcers form, the surrounding tissue begins to decay. Additional symptoms often include bleeding gums, bad breath, and extensive discoloration of the gum tissue. In severe cases, patients may experience fever and swollen lymph nodes.
What causes this aggressive form of gingivitis?
Like other forms of gum disease, it starts as an infection of the gum tissue. However, it is more aggressive than the more common form of gum disease. As a result, it can result in extreme sensitivity and significant gum, ligament, and bone decay.
This condition is not caused by any one factor. In general, it stems from multiple causes. For example, it is more common among people with an already compromised immune system and one or more of the factors listed below:
• High stress: High stress is known to weaken the immune system and can lead to gum infections, especially when combined with poor oral hygiene.
• Smoking: Smoking can cause a host of oral health problems.
• Poor diet: A lack of adequate nutrition can lead to the development of gum disease. Additionally, it can make existing gum problems significantly worse.
• Chronic disease: Chronic diseases weaken the immune system, making it more difficult for the body to fight infections.
• Lack of oral hygiene: Brushing and flossing regularly removes bacteria and helps prevent buildup along the gumline. Gum infections are common among people who do not maintain a regular oral hygiene routine.
Treatment for acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis
The treatment for this condition has two stages. The primary objective involves treating the infection and preventing further damage. Following the initial treatment, the focus shifts to repairing the damage that has already occurred.
The most common treatments are:
• Antibiotics: Antibiotics work to control the bacteria and help to ensure that there are no complications from the treatment procedures.
• Scaling and root planing: Scaling and root planing are often called “deep cleaning.” These treatments are designed to remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline. We control the infection and encourage the healing process by eliminating the bacteria.
• Gum disease surgery or LANAP treatment: In more extreme cases, gum disease surgery or LANAP laser treatment is performed to stop the infection and build back lost tissue.
• Tissue repair: As mentioned earlier, this condition results in tissue decay. We aim to repair the damage and rebuild the tissue as much as possible. Treatments such as bone grafts and gum grafts may stabilize the teeth and improve aesthetics.
Sacramento periodontics can help
This aggressive form of gingivitis is a serious condition. But we can help. Sacramento Periodontics provides caring and compassionate periodontal services that can improve oral health and restore your smile. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.