Chronic bad breath, also known as halitosis, can impact confidence and social interactions. Through a comprehensive dental examination and diagnostic techniques, they can pinpoint the source of bad breath and recommend an appropriate treatment plan. Below are the most common causes of this condition.
Identifying the specific cause is essential in providing effective and lasting relief. Chronic bad breath can occur due to various reasons. The following conditions are some of the most common causes of bad breath.
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a leading cause of persistent bad breath. Common symptoms include swollen gums, gum recession, and the presence of periodontal pockets. These pockets can trap bacteria and food particles, potentially leading to infection and unpleasant odors.
In order to confirm the presence of periodontal disease, the dentist may perform a periodontal probe examination to measure pocket depth. They may also take digital X-rays of the patient's mouth to assess bone loss around their teeth. This can help determine the severity of the gum disease and the necessary treatment.
Once the general dentist determines the presence of periodontal disease, they will likely recommend a dental deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, to significantly reduce the effects of the patient's bad breath. They may also prescribe antibiotic therapy to prevent further damage.
Saliva is vital to one's oral health. It washes away food particles and neutralizes acids in the patient's mouth. A decrease in saliva production, a condition known as dry mouth, or xerostomia, can contribute to halitosis. Common symptoms of dry mouth include:
Certain medications, medical treatments, or underlying health conditions can also cause dry mouth. The general dentist may recommend that the patient increase their fluid intake, use specialized mouth rinses, utilize saliva substitutes, or modify their medications (under the supervision of their primary care physician).
Certain foods and lifestyle choices can also contribute to bad breath. The general dentist may ask about the patient's consumption of foods like garlic, onions, and coffee, which are known to cause temporary bad breath. Additionally, smoking and other tobacco can dry the mouth and introduce strong-smelling substances, leading to chronic halitosis.
The general dentist will begin by visually inspecting the patient's mouth for signs of plaque, tartar buildup, and cavities. Damaged or decaying teeth can host bacteria that emit foul-smelling gases, which can contribute to chronic halitosis. They will also assess the condition of the gums. As previously mentioned, inflamed or bleeding gum tissue may be a sign of periodontal disease.
A dirty coating on the tongue, especially on the posterior portion, can also harbor odor-causing bacteria. The dentist may gently scrape the tongue to assess the presence of bacteria and food debris. If necessary, the dentist may recommend using a tongue scraper or specific oral rinses as part of the patient's treatment plan.
In addition to the physical assessment, the general dentist will ask the patient about their daily oral hygiene practices. Inadequate brushing and flossing habits can lead to the accumulation of food particles and bacteria, which can result in bad breath. With this information, the dentist can provide personalized recommendations for brushing techniques, adjustments in flossing frequency, and the use of antibacterial mouthwash to freshen their breath and improve their overall oral hygiene.
Patients who wear dental appliances, such as dentures, clear aligners, or braces, will require additional guidance on maintaining their oral hygiene during appliance therapy. Improperly cleaned dental appliances can become a breeding ground for bacteria, allowing them to accumulate and contribute to chronic bad breath.
While mouth odors are the primary cause of chronic bad breath, they can also result from other parts of the body. Sinus infections, gastrointestinal disorders, and diabetes can contribute to chronic halitosis. The general dentist may recommend visiting a primary care physician if they determine the cause of bad breath is a systemic health issue.
Have you been struggling with chronic bad breath? A general dentist can help identify the root cause and provide subsequent treatment. Call our Visalia office to learn more about our general dentistry services or to schedule an appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://www.dentistofvisalia.com or call Visalia Care Dental at (559) 975-1213 for an appointment in our Visalia office.
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