Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis

Definition

Definition of Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis
Acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (ANUG) or necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (NUG) is a sub-classification of necrotizing periodontal disease, an infection of the gum tissue. This presents as an acute infection of the gingiva without involvement of the other tissues of the periodontium. If the infection has progressed deeper into the periodontal tissues, it is subclassified as "necrotizing ulcerative periodontitis" (NUP).

Symptoms

Symptoms of Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis
Clinical features of necrotizing periodontal disease may include:

1. Necrosis and/or punched out ulceration of the interdental papillae ("punched-out papillae") or gingival margin
2. Pseudomembranous formation
3. Painful, bright red marginal gingiva that bleed upon gentle manipulation
4. Halitosis

Causes

Causes of Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis
The cause of ANUG is poor oral hygiene, deficient nutrition and emotional stress. The soldiers in crowded conditions commonly experienced these maladies, giving rise to the misconception.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis
Your dentist will ask you to describe your symptoms and discuss your medical history. He or she will perform a dental exam, looking for deterioration, inflammation or crater-like ulcers in the gums. Your dentist may recommend facial or dental X-rays.

Prognosis

Prognosis of Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis
Untreated, the infection may lead to rapid destruction of the periodontium and can spread, as necrotizing stomatitis or noma, into neighbouring tissues in the cheeks, lips or the bones of the jaw. As stated, the condition can occur and be especially dangerous in people with weakened immune systems. This progression to noma is possible in malnourished susceptible individuals, with severe disfigurement possible.

Treatment

Treatment of Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis
Treatment includes irrigation and debridement of necrotic areas (areas of dead and/or dying gum tissue), oral hygiene instruction and the uses of mouth rinses and pain medication. As these diseases are often associated with systemic medical issues, proper management of the systemic disorders is appropriate.

Prevention

Prevention of Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis
Naturally, prevention is the best means to avoid this painful condition. Regular tooth brushing, flossing and professional check-ups will inhibit ANUG and other dental disease.