Bad breath, also known as halitosis in medical terms, can be socially uncomfortable and potentially serious health issues. It is estimated that up to 25% of people have chronic bad breath. While bad breath is acceptable on occasion, persistent halitosis may indicate an underlying health condition that requires treatment.
The most common cause of bad breath is poor oral hygiene. When food particles and bacteria build up in the mouth, they can create a foul odor. Regular brushing and flossing, along with visits to the dentist for cleanings and check-ups, can help keep bad breath at bay. Certain foods, such as onions and garlic, are well-recognized to have a visible effect on our breath. This is due to the fact that these foods are absorbed into our bloodstream and subsequently travel to our lungs, resulting in the emission of unpleasant odors. However, the symptoms of food-related foul breath are only transient and should go away in a few hours. However, foul breath caused by tobacco use, smoking, periodontal (gum) disease, insufficient denture cleaning, or medical conditions such as sinus infections, respiratory tract infections, and diabetes necessitates immediate medical intervention. Failure to manage foul breath caused by these factors might lead to further oral health problems. The harmful effects of poor breath can spread beyond the mouth, potentially affecting the bloodstream, lungs, and stomach.
At House of Dontics, we offer treatment for halitosis (bad breath) by providing a professional cleaning and oral cleanse that can reach areas that may not be accessible with regular brushing and flossing. We use the latest methods and products, such as the Breath Rx Treatment, to effectively treat our patients. If gum disease is determined to be the underlying cause of the halitosis, we may recommend a deep cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing. This treatment removes plaque and tartar buildup from below the gum line and smooths out any rough spots on the tooth roots to prevent bacteria from accumulating. Additionally, if the source of the bad breath is found to be the tongue, we can perform tongue scraping to help alleviate the problem.
We realize how uncomfortable and frustrating bad breath can be, which is why we are dedicated to providing our patients with personalized and effective halitosis therapies. If you are experiencing foul breath, please contact the House of Dontics to book an appointment to discuss your treatment options.
White coating on the tongue
A white coating on the tongue, especially at the back of the tongue, can be a sign of poor oral hygiene, oral thrush, or a yeast infection. It can also be a symptom of an underlying medical condition.
Dry mouth
Dry mouth occurs when there is a decrease in saliva production. It can be caused by medication, dehydration, and certain medical conditions. A dry mouth can contribute to bad breath and a metallic taste.
Build up around teeth
A buildup of plaque around teeth can lead to gum disease, bad breath, and tooth decay. It is important to practice good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing regularly, to prevent plaque buildup.
Post-nasal drip or mucous
Post-nasal drip occurs when excess mucus drips down the back of the throat. It can be caused by allergies, colds, and sinus infections. Post-nasal drip can contribute to bad breath and a constant need to clear the throat.
Morning bad breath and burning tongue
Morning bad breath can be caused by dry mouth, poor oral hygiene, or a medical condition. A burning tongue can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition, such as oral thrush, acid reflux, or a vitamin deficiency.
Halimeter
This is a device that measures the level of sulfur compounds in your breath, which can contribute to bad breath. It helps dentists to determine the underlying cause of bad breath and recommend appropriate treatment.
Laser treatment
Some dentists use lasers to remove bacteria and infected tissue from the gums, which can cause bad breath. This treatment is quick and painless, and can effectively reduce bad breath.
Air abrasion
This is a gentle, non-invasive technique that uses a stream of air and particles to remove plaque and bacteria from the teeth and gums. It can help to eliminate the bacteria that cause bad breath.
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Poor oral hygiene
If you don't brush and floss your teeth regularly, food particles can remain in your mouth and produce bacteria that cause bad breath.
Dry mouth
Saliva helps to cleanse the mouth and neutralize the acids produced by bacteria. If you have a dry mouth, such as due to medications, you may have less saliva production and experience bad breath.
Certain foods and drinks
Foods like garlic, onions, and coffee can produce a strong odor in the mouth that lingers even after brushing.
Smoking and tobacco use
Smoking and other tobacco products can cause a foul smell in the mouth and contribute to gum disease, which can also cause bad breath.
Health conditions
Some medical conditions, such as sinus infections, respiratory tract infections, and gastrointestinal problems, can cause bad breath.
Medications
Certain medications, such as those used to treat high blood pressure or depression, can cause dry mouth and bad breath as a side effect.
Gum disease
When bacteria build up in the gums, they can produce a bad odor and contribute to gum disease, which can also cause bad breath.
Oral diseases
Oral tumors, oral cancer, Mouth ulcers
Oral Examination
Cleaning
Underlying Conditions
Oral Hygiene Education
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