Which microorganism is spiral-shaped and associated with ulcerative periodontal infection?

Treponema vincenti is a spiral-shaped bacterium that is linked to ulcerative periodontal infections, specifically acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (ANUG), often referred to as trench mouth. This organism is part of the normal flora in the mouth but can proliferate under conditions of stress, malnutrition, or poor oral hygiene, leading to an overgrowth that causes significant oral issues. The spiral shape of Treponema distinguishes it from other periodontal pathogens, which have different morphologies, such as cocci or straight rods, highlighting its unique characteristics related to specific types of infections.

Understanding the role of Treponema vincenti in periodontal disease helps dental professionals identify and treat conditions associated with this microorganism effectively. The pathogenic potential of this bacterium stems from its ability to invade tissue and provoke inflammation, leading to the clinical manifestations observed in ulcerative periodontal diseases.