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

Debridement is considered the most important treatment for Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis (ANUG) due to the nature of the condition, which is characterized by painful ulcerations and necrosis of the gingival tissues. This process involves the removal of necrotic tissue and debris from the affected areas, which helps reduce the bacterial load, alleviate symptoms, and promote healing. Effective debridement allows for better access to the underlying tissues, facilitating the re-establishment of healthy gingival tissues.

While adjunctive therapies, such as antibiotics or antiseptic rinses, may play a role in managing the infection and providing symptomatic relief, they do not address the immediate need for tissue clearance that debridement accomplishes. Similarly, educating the patient about oral hygiene or discussing the link between oral health and systemic health are valuable components of a comprehensive treatment plan but are secondary to the urgent intervention of removing necrotic tissue to control the acute episode and pave the way for healing.