What Are The Causes of Trench Mouth
Trench mouth got its name during World War I when the soldiers who were fighting along the trenches started having trouble with their teeth and gums. Due to insufficient oral care they lacked good oral hygiene resulting ultimately in gingivitis. As time progressed and their gingivitis worsened they became struck with a condition known as trench mouth.
We all have bacteria in our mouth, but when the bacteria grows out of control the result is trench mouth. The overgrowth of bacteria in the mouth causes a severe infection in the mouth which damages and destroys the delicate gum tissue that supports the teeth. As the infection worsens large ulcers form. These ulcers are filled with additional bacteria, food particles, and decaying gum tissue. In the end, the most common trench mouth symptoms include severe gum pain, bad breath, and a foul taste in the mouth.
Bacteria is the main culprit that causes trench mouth; however, there are other risk factors that increase the risks of trench mouth and can also increase the severity of trench mouth. Trench mouth is commonly associated with people in third world countries who have poor and/or inadequate hygiene; however, trench mouth is still common in major countries because of the result of untreated gum and mouth infections. Poor and/or inadequate oral hygiene such as failing to brush the teeth and floss regularly can lead to a buildup of plaque on the teeth and gums. This buildup of plaque makes the perfect location for bacteria to thrive and grow.
Poor nutrition can also increase a person’s risk of suffering from trench mouth. Insufficient amounts of fruits, vegetables, and essential nutrients make it difficult for the body to fight off infection. Malnourished children especially those in third world countries are particularly susceptible to trench mouth.
Persons who smoke and/or chew tobacco increase their risk for trench mouth. Smoking and chewing tobacco harms the blood vessels within the gums; therefore, making it easier for bacteria to grow and thrive.
A person suffering from a lowered immune system is also at a risk of getting trench mouth. Illnesses that commonly suppress a person’s immune system include: AIDS, cancer, and mononucleosis. Another problem that can commonly suppress a person’s immune system is emotional stress. Stress weakens the immune system and makes it difficult for the body to fight infections. Infections, especially those infections of the throat, teeth, and mouth can also cause trench mouth if they are not treated effectively.
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