Dental Assistant Practice Exam

Which of the following describes Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis (NUG)?

1. A chronic gum disease

2. A bacterial infection where tissue is dead or dying

3. An allergic reaction

4. A viral infection of the gums

The correct answer is: A bacterial infection where tissue is dead or dying

Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis (NUG) is characterized as a bacterial infection where tissue is dead or dying, which is why this option is correct. In NUG, there is significant necrosis of the gingival tissue, leading to ulcerations and a distinct clinical presentation that includes a painful, bleeding, and often foul-smelling appearance. The condition typically arises due to a combination of factors such as stress, compromised immune function, poor oral hygiene, and the presence of specific bacteria, particularly anaerobic bacteria. The other options do not accurately describe NUG. While chronic gum disease can encompass a range of conditions affecting the gums, NUG is specifically acute and involves significant tissue necrosis rather than a chronic inflammatory process. An allergic reaction does not relate to bacterial infections and typically involves immune responses to allergens, which is not the case in NUG. Lastly, a viral infection of the gums is not relevant here; while viral infections can affect the oral cavity, NUG is specifically caused by bacteria and exhibits different symptoms than those associated with viral infections.