TRENCH MOUTH has been more or less a civilian problem ever since WWI. Conditions in the military service were favorable for its spread, and it was one of the most prevalent of the army diseases. Rather more than the usual number of cases now is the occasion for another word of warningand the advice which follows.
These Symptoms Should Have Immediate Attention
Trench mouth is indicated by inflammation of the gums, inside of the cheeks, tongue, and tonsils. When it advances to the ulcer stage a grayish membrane is formed which, if removed, causes acute bleeding. In more advanced cases the teeth become loose, and it is painful to chew food. The patient may even have a temperature, swollen glands, headaches, nausea, and other physical disturbances.
Most cases are among those of early adult or middle age, although children are sometimes affected.
Any way by which saliva may be transferred from one person's mouth to another's can spread the disease. This is a real reason for the oft-repeated warning against common drinking cups and towels. Unsterilized eating utensils at public places, soda fountain glasses, and swimming pools are viewed with suspicion. "Carriers" have been known to spread the disease without being noticeably affected themselves.
Mouth Hygiene for Prevention
Since we cannot avoid every possible source of infection, it is very important that the mouth be kept in a clean, healthy condition. Regular visits to the dentist will make it easy to stop tooth cavities from growing to any size. Swelling or redness of the gums should also receive prompt attention. Good habits of mouth cleanliness are to be desired. Cleaning the teeth, at least twice daily, with a suitable brush and rinsing the mouth with a mild antiseptic or salt solution will help to ward off infection.
Trench mouth, once definitely started, needs the attention of a dentist or physician. Its cure depends on prompt and proper treatment with full co-operation from the patient.
These Symptoms Should Have Immediate Attention
Trench mouth is indicated by inflammation of the gums, inside of the cheeks, tongue, and tonsils. When it advances to the ulcer stage a grayish membrane is formed which, if removed, causes acute bleeding. In more advanced cases the teeth become loose, and it is painful to chew food. The patient may even have a temperature, swollen glands, headaches, nausea, and other physical disturbances.
Most cases are among those of early adult or middle age, although children are sometimes affected.
Any way by which saliva may be transferred from one person's mouth to another's can spread the disease. This is a real reason for the oft-repeated warning against common drinking cups and towels. Unsterilized eating utensils at public places, soda fountain glasses, and swimming pools are viewed with suspicion. "Carriers" have been known to spread the disease without being noticeably affected themselves.
Mouth Hygiene for Prevention
Since we cannot avoid every possible source of infection, it is very important that the mouth be kept in a clean, healthy condition. Regular visits to the dentist will make it easy to stop tooth cavities from growing to any size. Swelling or redness of the gums should also receive prompt attention. Good habits of mouth cleanliness are to be desired. Cleaning the teeth, at least twice daily, with a suitable brush and rinsing the mouth with a mild antiseptic or salt solution will help to ward off infection.
Trench mouth, once definitely started, needs the attention of a dentist or physician. Its cure depends on prompt and proper treatment with full co-operation from the patient.
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