March 21, 2007
Understanding Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis
Acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (ANUG) is an inflammation of the gums characterized by the presence of necrotic ulcers covered by tissue debris in which gums are painful to the touch and bleed readily. The onset of ANUG can be very rapid, but seems to be connected to pre-existing gum inflammation and bleeding known as gingivitis.
Poor hygiene that allows plaque buildup is the primary preventable cause of ANUG, but additional factors such as smoking and compromised immune system function caused by other chronic or acute disease. Patients with ANUG typically demonstrate a reduced ability to cope with psychological and emotional stress.
The traditional therapy for ANUG has been gum surgery. However, the alternative approach of periodic scaling, root planing, and antimicrobial rinses with 0.12% chlorhexidine has been shown to be effective in halting and even reversing the disease. As with most diseases of the teeth and gums, prevention is best obtained by practicing a program of rigorous oral hygiene that includes brushing and flowing after every meal and twice-yearly visits to your dentist.
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April 10, 2007
Teeth Scaling: Why This is an Important Bi-Annual Dental Procedure | americansmilemakeovers.com (Pingback)
[…] Because plaque formation on the teeth is a continuous process, everyone should have their teeth cleaned and scaled at least once every six months, more frequently if dental disease is already present. Scaling does not weaken teeth. It prevents prevents gum diseases which bring about bleeding gums and if not checked leading to more serious and extensive gum problems. Filed under Dental Education, Smile Makeover by admin […]
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May 14, 2007
Educating Dental Patients: Tobacco and Oral Health | (Pingback)
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Educating Dental Patients: Tobacco and Oral Health | americansmilemakeovers.com (Pingback)
[…] Adult smokers are approximately three times as likely as non-smokers to develop gum disease as non-smokers. They are also more likely to avoid dentists and the very therapies that could improve their oral health and save their teeth. […]
July 2, 2007
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