User:Mr. Ibrahem/Acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis

Acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (ANUG), also known as trench mouth, is a type of infection of the gums. It results in pain, bleeding gums, and ulceration of the gums between the teeth. Other symptoms may include bad breath, large lymph nodes, and fatigue. Onset is generally sudden. Complications can include necrotizing ulcerative periodontitis (NUP) or cancrum oris.

Risk factors include smoking, poor oral hygiene, being malnourished, psychological stress, and a weak immune system such as in HIV/AIDS. It generally occurs due to gram-negative bacteria of the fusiform and spirochete type. It is not contagious. Diagnosis is usually based on symptoms. It is classified as a necrotizing gum disease.

Treatment is by removal of dead gum tissue, chlorhexidine gluconate mouth rinses, and antibiotics. Often metronidazole by mouth is used. Improving oral hygiene is important to prevent recurrence. With treatment, it usually improves with a few days.

Acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis is rare. The condition has been known since the 4th century BCE. Modern medical descriptions date from 1778 by John Hunter. The term "trench mouth" arose during World War I as many soldiers developed the disease, due to the poor conditions and extreme stress.