Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans

introduction

Worldwide is one of the most common diseases in human Oral cavity next to the Caries the Gingivitis (Inflammation of the gums) and the Periodontal disease (Inflammation and ultimately destruction of the tooth support system)

Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans is a germ that occurs in the oral cavity of healthy or sick people and other mammals. It is usually referred to as A. actinimycetemcomitans for short. It is both aerobic and anaerobic, which means that it can exist in the presence of oxygen as well as in the absence of oxygen. You may also be interested in this topic: Bad breath

infection

The infection occurs through physical contact such as kissing or through sharing so-called “family toothbrushes” or sharing cutlery.

Occur

Besides other germs naturally occurring in the oral cavity, A. actinomycetemcomitans is the main cause of the above Gingivitis, an inflammatory reaction of the gums, as well as the Periodontal disease, an inflammation and destruction of the tooth support system. While with younger people the Caries The most common cause of tooth loss is that older cohorts lose their teeth more often due to periodontal disease i.e. Periodontal disease, also caused by A.actinimycetemcomitans.

structure

Under the microscope, A. actinomycetemcomitans appears as a small rounded rod. Also in blood the germ can be detected by determining antibodies. This shows that the pathogen can also be passed on via the bloodstream and can damage other organs.

Symptoms

Lots bacteria, as well A. actinimycetemcomitans collect in what adheres to the teeth Dental plaque. This medically Plaque The above-mentioned coating is composed primarily of a wide variety of pathogens. In addition to the sugar-digesting bacteria responsible for caries, A.actinomycetemcomitans is responsible for the development of inflammatory reactions in the gums.

The first sign of such an inflammatory reaction is reddening of the gum line, later bleeding occurs, especially after brushing your teeth. If the process continues, gingival pockets are created in which A. actinomycetemcomitans, along with other bacteria, feels comfortable, the bone is broken down and, ultimately, teeth are lost.

therapy

The therapy and at the same time prophylaxis consists in the removal of plaque by means of brushing toothbrush and toothpaste as well as the use of Floss for cleaning the interdental spaces. However, if the process is more advanced, a thorough dental cleaning the gingival pockets. This removes all deposits and bacteria. However, it is not possible to restore bones that have already been destroyed. But by eliminating the bacteria, further destruction of the teeth supporting structure is prevented.

The spread of A. actinocetemcomitans can therefore be prevented by prophylactic and, if necessary, surgical measures (see also surgery) be prevented.