Acute periodontal conditions are a set of rapid-onset ailments that affect
the oral cavity. As opposed to gingivitis or periodontitis, which are chronic
infections, these conditions can be associated with pain or discomfort, and may
have immediate systemic manifestations. The symptoms of acute periodontal
conditions can be so severe as to create a
dental emergency.
Gingival Abscess
An abscess is a gathering of pus in an infected area. A gingival abscess is a
painful swelling of the gum that may appear to be red and shiny. It is tender to
touch and can have pus draining from it. It can be caused by bacterial plaque or
a foreign object embedded in a sensitive area. Treatment involves draining the
pus and cleaning the abscess thoroughly. The area needs to be numbed for patient
comfort, and if promptly treated, gingival abscesses should not leave any
scarring or long-term complications.
Periodontal Abscess
A periodontal abscess exhibits similar signs and symptoms as a gingival
abscess, but with the infection involving the bone and tissues that support the
tooth. The involved tooth can become mobile and sensitive to touch due to rapid
bone loss around it. To treat a periodontal abscess, the area needs to be numbed
and the abscess drained. The tooth may need to be scaled in order to remove the
irritants that caused the infection. It may be necessary to irrigate the abscess
with special antimicrobial solutions or to take systemic antibiotics. The tooth
may need to be adjusted so that the bite is more comfortable. If the abscess is
severe, it may require surgical treatment or even removal of the tooth. A
thorough periodontal evaluation is recommended after a
dental emergency treatment to
identify other possible problem areas.
Periodontal/Endodontic Abscess
This is a combined infection of the gum, bone, and the nerve in the root
canal of the tooth. It can be caused by a gum infection that progressed to the
tip of the tooth, infecting the nerve in the root canal, or by a nerve infection
that is draining through the gum tissue. Either way, the signs and symptoms are
the same as with a periodontal or gum abscess. This type of
periodontal treatment may include periodontal
(as above) and/or root canal therapy.
Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis (ANUG)
Painful ulcers that bleed easily characterize this generalized, acute
condition of the gums.
Bad breath can also be present, and systemic
manifestations include fever and lymph node enlargement. ANUG is associated with
stress, smoking, poor nutrition, and people with immunodeficiencies (including
HIV). Untreated ANUG can progress to NUP (necrotizing ulcerative periodontitis),
in which there is bone loss around the teeth and eventually tooth loss.
Treatment of ANUG includes a cleaning of the teeth and irrigation of the gums.
Plaque control is very important after initial treatment. If it is difficult to
brush or floss, oral rinses may be prescribed. Antibiotic treatment may be
necessary if there is systemic involvement such as fever.
Herpetic Gingivostomatitis
This is another generalized acute condition of the gums and soft tissues of
the mouth. It is an infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. There may be
multiple ulcers and fever. Swollen lymph nodes and malaise may also be
associated with herpetic gingivostomatitis. This condition is self-limiting and
resolves in 10 to 15 days. For patient comfort, treatment includes application
of a numbing agent (topical anesthetic) and a thorough cleaning of the ulcers.
This is followed by oral hygiene instructions and proper nutritional intake
information. Under some circumstances, antiviral medications may be prescribed.
Herpetic gingivostomatitis is contagious, and intimate contact should be avoided
during the healing period.
Pericoronitis
This is an inflammation and infection of the tissues that cover the chewing
surfaces of the teeth that are not fully erupted. The gums in that area can be
red, swollen, and painful to touch. It also may be difficult to open the mouth.
In addition, there can be a discharge of pus. Like with all other infections,
pericoronitis can spread and create further systemic complications like lymph
node enlargement, fever, and malaise. Pericoronitis is treated with a thorough
cleaning and irrigation of the affected area. It may be necessary to surgically
reshape the gum around the partially-erupted tooth or to remove the tooth.
Antibiotic treatment also may be necessary.
Acute periodontal conditions may be manifestations of pre-existing
periodontal problems that result in an acute problem and a
dental emergency. The best way to prevent dental emergencies is to maintain oral health and to visit your
dental care provider routinely for examinations.
