Causes and risk factors
Gingivostomatitis is caused by bacteria or virus. Infection of herpes simplex virus type 1 is a predisposing factor. Infection of Coxsackievirus can lead to the disease. Poor oral hygiene increases the risk of gingivostomatitis.
Clinical presentation
Patient complains of very sore mouth with no desire to eat; pain while eating and drinking. Fever, generalized discomfort, uneasiness or ill feeling, and malaise are commonly experienced by the patient. The patient may present with sores on the inside of the cheeks, gums, or inner side of the lips. There can be bad breath. Drooling, especially in children, is observed. In severe cases, there can be bleeding through gums.
Investigation
Medical history by the patient and oral clinical examination by the doctor helps in diagnosis. Routine hemogram is recommended. Tissue biopsy may be advised.
Treatment
Use of mouth rinse, practicing good oral hygiene, use of mouthwashes with hydrogen peroxide helps in management of the disease. Administration of antibiotics is required. Debridement, i.e., removal of infected tissues by the dentist may be required in severe cases.
Other Modes of treatment
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating gingivostomatitis. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization and considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms. Similarly, the Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbal medicines and synthetic derivates are also found to be effective in treating gingivostomatitis.
