What is the recommended treatment for Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis (ANUG)?

Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis (ANUG) is a painful and destructive infection of the gums that can lead to serious oral health issues if not treated effectively. The recommended treatment for ANUG focuses primarily on the removal of necrotic tissue and debris, which is why debridement is seen as the most effective option. This procedure helps to promote healing by removing the affected tissue, allowing for a reduction of inflammation and facilitating access to the healthy tissue underneath.

While antibiotic therapy can be beneficial in controlling the infection, particularly in cases that are more severe or not responding adequately to local treatment, it should be considered a supplementary approach rather than the primary treatment. Scaling and root planing is important for overall periodontal health but may not be sufficient as an initial treatment for the acute and severe symptoms associated with ANUG. Regular dental check-ups are certainly important for maintaining oral health and preventing future issues but are not an immediate treatment for an active ANUG case. Thus, debridement stands out as the first-line treatment to manage the condition effectively.