Common Causes And Risk Factors Of Trench Mouth
Trench mouth is a very serious type of infection in the gums typically caused by an increase of bacteria in the mouth. This condition often causes bleeding gums and will be highly painful until it is treated. The mouth usually consists of the right amount of fungi, viruses, and healthy bacteria. If an individual's oral hygiene is poor, the amount of harmful bacteria in their mouth will begin to grow. Over time, the gums will become reddened and likely begin to bleed, which usually results in the development of a bacterial infection known as gingivitis. While this is a serious condition to deal with, trench mouth is a form of the initial bacterial infection that has progressed rapidly and can cause much worse complications. This infection is rare and can likely be caught before it's fully developed. Get to know the most common causes and risk factors of trench mouth now.
Diabetes Mellitus
Among the top risk factors for trench mouth is the presence of diabetes mellitus, a chronic and lifelong condition the affected individual will need to manage through insulin injections and similar treatment methods. When an individual suffers from diabetes, the ability their body has to make use of the energy found in food is substantially hampered. Whether individuals are affected by type 1 or type 2 diabetes, their body will largely be unable to produce the amount of insulin required for the body to function properly. Insulin is a hormone within the bloodstream that's necessary for the transfer of food into energy, referred to as glucose, the rest of the body can use. Since the glucose isn't filtered properly through the body, it will instead build up within the blood, which can lead to a wide range of damaging side effects such as trench mouth. High glucose levels primarily cause issues with the blood vessels found in the nervous system, heart, and kidneys, which means individuals may eventually suffer from kidney damage, heart disease, or a stroke. The presence of diabetes invariably worsens their overall health levels, which makes trench mouth likelier.
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Weak Immune System
The immune system is a portion of the body comprised of a large number of cells, organs, proteins, and tissues that help defend the body against bacteria, germs, and microorganisms. When an individual's immune system is strong and healthy, the rest of their body will be as well. However, a weak immune system greatly heightens an individual's risk of developing a cold, infection, or similar illness. When an individual's immune system is no longer functioning the way it should be, the harmful bacteria in their mouth will likely flourish as opposed to being destroyed, which will increase their risk of being affected by trench mouth. Keep in mind a weakened immune system will likely only cause this condition if the individual is not practicing proper oral health techniques. If they are brushing and flossing every day, these steps should be enough to rid their mouth of enough harmful bacteria that trench mouth is kept at bay. The immune system can become weakened for any number of reasons such as a previous illness or heightened stress.
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Gingivitis
Gingivitis is likely the main cause of trench mouth since the presence of this infection places individuals at a much higher risk of developing trench mouth. Trench mouth is considered an advanced form of this infection, which means the symptoms of gingivitis become more severe when an individual begins to suffer from trench mouth. This condition will cause gums to become inflamed and will almost always occur because of poor oral health. Untreated cases can eventually lead to the loss of a tooth. Some of the main symptoms patients might experience include bad breath, bleeding gums, sore gums, reddened gums, loose teeth, fatigue, and heightened tooth sensitivity. This type of infection is treatable before it transforms into trench mouth. It occurs in the first place because of a buildup of hardened plaque on the teeth, which is why treatments usually focus on getting rid of the built-up plaque.
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Improper Nutrition
In order for the body to function properly, it needs the right kinds of nutrients. Whether individuals obtain these nutrients by consuming large amounts of fruits and vegetables or by taking supplements, doing so will keep their body in good condition. However, not getting the right nutrients can make it very difficult for the body to fight against infections like trench mouth. Improper nutrition will typically need to be paired with poor oral health care for trench mouth to develop. One's diet should be a healthy one that limits sugar, refined carbohydrates, and any foods high in calories. It should also be filled with protein, fiber, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats.
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Poor Dental Hygiene
The root cause of most cases of trench mouth is poor dental hygiene. If individuals leave the food and beverages they consume on their teeth without brushing and flossing promptly, it's possible for these food particles to combine with saliva and the bacteria in their mouth to form a sticky plaque substance. If individuals don't remove the buildup of plaque, it will eventually cause issues with the protective enamel coating found on the teeth. Over time, cavities will develop and trench mouth can occur. Individuals can avoid this problem by practicing good dental hygiene techniques. Patients should make sure they brush their teeth and the surrounding gums at least twice every day. They should also regularly floss and consider using mouthwash. Individuals should always replace their toothbrush at least once every three months to ensure plaque is being properly removed.