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Health

Mouth trichomonas

, medical expert
Last reviewed: 07.06.2024
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Trichomonads are microscopic, single-celled organisms that can cause infections in humans and other animals. Mouth Trichomonas, or Trichomonas tenax, is a type of trichomonad that can live in the human oral cavity.

Although Trichomonas tenax can be found in the oral cavity, it usually does not cause serious illness or symptoms in healthy people. This organism can coexist with other microorganisms in the oral cavity.

However, in some cases, especially when there are immune system disorders or other medical problems, Trichomonas tenax can become pathogenic and cause an infection. In such cases, the infection can manifest itself with symptoms such as inflamed gums, bleeding gums, and bad breath.

Treatment for oral trichomonas may require antiparasitic medications and should be done under the supervision of a doctor. If you suspect an oral trichomonas infection or have symptoms, see a dentist or infectious disease specialist for diagnosis and treatment.

Structure of the oral trichomonads

Trichomonads are single-celled microorganisms that belong to the class of protozoa and cause an infection called trichomoniasis. Trichomonads have a unique structure that includes the following features:

  1. Trichomonadbody: Trichomonads usually have a long and narrow body that can be oval or flat. Their shape may vary slightly depending on the species and environmental conditions.
  2. Hair-like motors (flagella): One of the characteristic features of trichomonads is the presence of many long hair-like motors called flagella. Flagella help them to move and navigate in the environment. Trichomonads can have one to four flagella.
  3. Cytoplasm: The cytoplasm of trichomonads contains various organelles such as the nucleus, mitochondria and other structures necessary for cell life.
  4. Shell and membranes: Trichomonads usually have a soft shell or membrane that surrounds their cell.
  5. Nucleus: The nucleus of trichomonads contains the genetic information of the cell.
  6. Blue corpuscles: Blue corpuscles may be present in the cytoplasm of trichomonads, which are iron and sulfur containing structures that play a role in metabolism and energy processes.

The structure of trichomonads can vary slightly depending on the species and environmental conditions, but common characteristics include the presence of flagella, an oval body, and a cytoplasm with organelles.

Life cycle of the oral trichomonads

The oral trichomonad is a microorganism from the class of protozoa called Trichomonas tenax. The life cycle of oral trichomonads can be described as follows:

  1. Trophozoites: The active and viable form of oral trichomonads is called a trophozoite. Trophozoites have vibrating hairs (flagella) that allow them to move and attach to the surface of the gums and other oral tissues. In this form, they usually feed on bacteria and other microorganisms.
  2. Fission: Trophozoites can divide by binary fission, resulting in an increase in their numbers.
  3. Cysts: Under certain conditions, such as dry mouth, low oxygen levels and unfavorable environments, trophozoites can transform into an inactivated form called a cyst. Cysts can survive in the external environment and be resistant to unfavorable factors.
  4. Spread: Oral trichomonas is spread through contact with infected oral secretions such as saliva or gum secretions. It can also be transmitted by kissing or by sharing objects such as toothbrushes, toothpicks, and others.
  5. Oral colonization: When oral trichomonads enter the human oral cavity, they can colonize the mucous membranes of the gums and other areas of the mouth. In some cases, it can cause gum disease such as gingivitis.

It is important to note that oral trichomonads usually do not cause serious disease and may be part of the normal oral microflora. However, in some cases, especially in cases of poor hygiene and immune disorders, it can contribute to dental problems.

Pathogenesis

The pathogenesis of oral trichomonads (Trichomonas tenax) in humans remains incompletely understood, as this organism does not usually cause serious disease in healthy individuals and is considered an opportunistic microorganism in the oral cavity. However, in some cases, especially with reduced immune defenses or other medical problems, Trichomonas tenax can become pathogenic and cause infection.

Possible pathogenesis pathways of oral trichomonads:

  1. Competition with other microorganisms: Trichomonas tenax lives in the oral cavity and competes with other microorganisms for space and nutrients. When the oral microflora is in balance, it can remain in a state of commensalism (coexistence without causing harm).
  2. Reduced immune defense: Reduced immune defense in the body can make a person more vulnerable to Trichomonas tenax infection. This can happen with various diseases, certain medications, or immunodeficiency conditions.
  3. Infection process: If Trichomonas tenax begins to multiply and increase its population in the oral cavity, it can cause various symptoms such as inflammation of the gums, bleeding from the gums, itching or bad breath. These symptoms may be due to tissue irritation or inflammation caused by the activity of this microorganism.

Symptoms

Oral trichomonas, or oral trichomonads, can cause a variety of oral symptoms and problems. Here are some of them:

  1. Maintaining Bacterial Imbalance: Oral Trichomonas can contribute to an imbalance of microflora in the oral cavity, which can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and other dental problems.
  2. Glossitis: This is an inflammation of the tongue that may be accompanied by soreness, redness and swelling.
  3. Stomatitis: Inflammation of the mucous membranes in the mouth, which can cause pain, irritation and ulcers.
  4. Metallic taste in the mouth: Some people may experience a metallic taste in their mouth.
  5. Bad breath (halitosis): Oral Trichomonas may contribute to the formation of hydrogen sulfide compounds, which can lead to bad breath.
  6. Salivation and burning: Some people may experience excessive salivation or burning in the mouth.
  7. Foreign body sensation: Patients may sometimes feel the presence of a foreign body or something unusual in the mouth.
  8. Throat and pharynx infections: In some cases, the infection can spread to the throat and pharynx, causing pain and difficulty swallowing.
  9. Foci of inflammation: Foci of inflammation may form on the oral mucosa.
  10. Weakening of general condition: In some cases, oral trichomonas may be accompanied by general weakness and discomfort.

Keep in mind that symptoms may vary depending on your individual body and the degree of infection.

Complications and consequences

Oral trichomonas (Trichomonas tenax) does not usually cause serious complications or illness in most people, and in most cases it is considered a normal oral microorganism. However, in some situations and in individuals with compromised immune systems, certain complications and effects may occur:

  1. Gingivitis: Oral trichomonads may be involved in the development of gingivitis, which is an inflammation of the gums. This condition can lead to bleeding gums, discomfort, and inflammation.
  2. Periodontitis: In rare cases, oral trichomonas can contribute to periodontitis, which is a more serious inflammatory disease of the periodontium, including the gums and bones that support the teeth.
  3. Upper respiratory tract infections: In some cases, oral trichomonas may be associated with upper respiratory tract infections, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems.
  4. Spread of other infections: In rare cases, oral trichomonas can serve as a vector for other infections, such as bacterial infections or fungal infections of the mouth.

It is important to note that complications caused by oral trichomonads are rare and usually occur in individuals with weakened immune systems or poor oral hygiene. To prevent complications and consequences associated with oral trichomonas, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene, including daily brushing and regular dental visits.

Diagnostics

Diagnosis of oral trichomonas (Trichomonas tenax) usually involves laboratory testing of a swab sample or biopsy from the oral cavity. Here are some diagnostic methods:

  1. Smear microscopy: This method involves taking a swab sample from the mouth and then examining it under a microscope. Trichomonads can be seen in the smear as moving microorganisms. This method is relatively quick and affordable, but requires some expertise in the laboratory to identify the trichomonads.
  2. Culture method: The swab sample can also be sown on special media for culturing Trichomonas tenax. This may take longer, but helps to confirm the presence of the microorganism and determine its sensitivity to antiparasitic drugs.
  3. Molecular methods: Modern molecular diagnostic methods such as PCR (polymerase chain reaction) can be used to detect and identify Trichomonas tenax in a swab sample. These methods are more sensitive and specific.

Differential diagnosis

The differential diagnosis of oral trichomonas, or oral trichomoniasis, involves identifying this microorganism and ruling out other possible causes of oral symptoms. The following may be required for this purpose:

  1. Clinical examination: The doctor will perform a visual inspection of the mouth and assess the condition of the mucous membranes, teeth, gums and tongue. This may help identify symptoms associated with oral trichomonas, such as glossitis (inflammation of the tongue) or stomatitis.
  2. Examination of biological specimens: Biological specimens from the oral cavity, such as swabs from mucous membranes or saliva, may be taken for an accurate diagnosis. These samples can be analyzed in the laboratory for the presence of trichomonads and other microorganisms.
  3. Laboratory tests: Laboratory tests such as microscopy, microbial culture, or PCR (polymerase chain reaction) can be used to determine if trichomonads are present in samples. These tests will rule out other possible causes of symptoms.
  4. Rule out other diseases: Your doctor should also rule out other diseases or conditions that may show symptoms similar to trichomoniasis. For example, fungal infections, viral infections, stomatitis, glossitis, allergies, and other dental or medical problems can mimic the symptoms of trichomoniasis.
  5. Patient history: It is important to gather information about the patient's medical and dental history, as well as the presence of a risk for infection with Trechomonas, such as sexual activity with an infected partner.

After differential diagnosis, the doctor can make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe appropriate treatment if oral trichomonas is confirmed. В

Treatment

Treatment for oral trichomonas (Trichomonas tenax) may be necessary when this microorganism causes symptoms or dental problems. Most often, however, oral trichomonas is considered part of the normal oral microflora and does not require specific treatment. If you or your dentist decides that treatment is necessary, here are some treatments for oral trichomonas:

  1. Metronidazole (Flagyl): This is an antibiotic that can be used to treat infections caused by protozoa, including oral trichomonads. Treatment usually consists of taking metronidazole over a period of time under a doctor's supervision.
  2. Topical treatment: In some cases, oral trichomonas can be treated with topical antiseptics or mouthwashes prescribed by a dentist.
  3. Supportive therapy: It is also important to address risk factors and maintain good oral hygiene. Regular brushing and visits to the dentist can help prevent recurrences or complications.
  4. Treatment of Associated Problems: If oral trichomonas has been associated with gingivitis or other dental problems, treatment will focus on improving gum health and eliminating inflammation.

Prevention of the oral trichomonads

Prevention of oral trichomonas involves following good hygiene practices and precautions to reduce the risk of infection. Here are some recommendations for prevention:

  1. Maintain good oral hygiene: Regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing of the oral cavity can help reduce the risk of infection and maintain oral health.
  2. Avoid sexual contact with an infected partner: If you have a sexual partner with diagnosed trichomoniasis, it is important to avoid sexual contact until treatment is complete and you receive confirmation from your doctor that the infection has been cured.
  3. Use condoms: Using condoms during sexual intercourse can reduce the risk of transmission.
  4. Following safe sexual practices: Knowing your sexual partner and following safe sexual practices can help prevent contracting a variety of infections, including trichomoniasis.
  5. Maintaining the immune system: A strong immune system helps protect the body from infections. A healthy lifestyle, including good nutrition, physical activity, and stress management, can help support the immune system.
  6. Regular visits to the doctor: Regular medical checkups and exams with your doctor can help detect infections or disease problems early and get appropriate treatment.

If you have risks of contracting oral trichomonas, such as if you have an active sex life and change partners, it is important to be vigilant and follow prevention recommendations.

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