Definition

Acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (ANUG) is a serious infection of the gums that causes ulcers, swelling, and dead tissues in the mouth. Although it is a very painful condition, it can be healed with treatment.

Causes

Acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis is typically caused by excess bacteria in the mouth. Too much bacteria can form in the mouth from smoking, stress, lack of dental care, a virus, and poor diet.

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. Risk factors for ANUG include:

• Lack of dental care
• Poor dental hygiene
• Poor diet
• Vitamin deficiencies
• Infections in the throat, teeth, or mouth
• Compromised immune system
• Smoking
• Stress
• Age: 35 years or younger

Symptoms

If you experience any of these symptoms, do not assume it is due to acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis. These symptoms may be caused by other health conditions. If you experience any one of them, see your dentist.

• Pain in the gums
• Gums that bleed easily
• Bad taste in mouth, extremely bad breath
• Red and swollen gums
• Gray residue on the gums
• Large ulcers or loss of gum tissue in between teeth
• Fever
• Swollen lymph nodes

Red and Swollen Gums

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Diagnosis

Your dentist will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A dental exam will be done to look for:

• Inflammation of the gums
• Destroyed gum tissue
• Crater-like ulcers in the gums that may contain plaque and debris from food
• Dental x-rays
• Facial x-rays

Dental X-ray

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Treatment

Talk with your dentist about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include:

• Antibiotics to clear up the infection
• Dental surgery
• Improved diet
• Regular dental cleanings
• Changes in diet

Prevention

To help reduce your chances of getting ANUG, take the following steps:

• Maintain a balanced, nutritional diet.
• Take proper care of teeth and gums.
• See your dentist regularly.