Alternative Names
Vincent’s stomatitis; Acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis
Definition of Trench mouth
Trench mouth is a painful bacterial infection that involves swelling (inflammation) and ulcers in the gums (gingiva).
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Trench mouth is a painful form of gum swelling (). The term “trench mouth” comes from World War I, when the disorder was common among soldiers.
Signs and tests
The health care provider will look at your mouth for signs of trench mouth:
Treatment
The goals of treatment are to cure the infection and relieve symptoms. Your health care provider may prescribe antibiotics if you have a fever.
Expectations (prognosis)
The infection usually responds to treatment. The disorder can be quite painful until it is treated. If trench mouth is untreated or treatment is delayed, the infection can spread to the cheeks, lips, or jawbone and destroy these tissues.
Review
Jack D Rosenberg, DDS, Advanced Dental Care, Palm Beach Gardens, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, M.D., MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 2/22/2010
