What is Trench Mouth?
Trench mouth is a form of severe gum infection that causes gum irritation along with ulcers (sores) inside the mouth. The term “trench mouth” originated from its common origin in World War I soldiers. Although it is more rare today, trench mouth can be a painful and problematic condition.
As with any bacterial infection of the mouth it originates from an over production of bad bacteria that have not been removed properly. When allowed to over grow infection will develop. Certain factors can that can lead to trench mouth include high stress levels, improper oral care, poor nutrition, smoking, or another infection inside the mouth or throat.
Trench mouth symptoms include ulcers, or sores along the gum line or between the teeth. Painful red and swollen gums are most common along with pain and bleeding with even the smallest amount of contact with the gums. A gray film may develop over the teeth as the tissues of the mouth are destroyed. As with any mouth infection a bad taste and bad breath may develop as the bacteria grow. In more advanced cases a fever may develop and the lymph nodes (glands in your throat and neck and filter bacteria) may swell in response to the infection.
Trench mouth responds well to treatment. Most importantly the bacteria must be removed for the tissues to heal. Establishing good brushing and flossing habits along with the guidance of your dentist will make the most impact on the infection. A salt water or diluted hydrogen peroxide rinse may also help sooth sore gums and remove any dying gum tissue. Over the counter pain medications like ibuprofen or acetomenophen may be used to help with the pain. These treatments alone are usually enough to cure trench mouth, but antibiotics may also be used to help reduce the infection.
Your dentist may want to x-ray your mouth to determine if the infection has reached deeper into the bones or other structures of the mouth. If trench mouth or any gum infection is left untreated tooth loss along with death of nerves may occur. An advanced infection may lead to the death of bones, ligaments or other supporting structures of the mouth.