Bad Breath
Chances are, you’ve experienced occasional bad breath after eating onions, garlic, or perhaps first thing in the morning. Yet, when bad breath becomes a persistent problem, there are other factors that must be considered including dehydration, poor dental hygiene, gingivitis, yeast infection, tonsillitis, or an abscess.
Dental professionals report that persistent bad breath, or Halitosis, can be a warning sign of an underlying health condition or periodontal (gum) disease. In essence, when plaque and bacteria collect on teeth, toxins are released that irritate teeth and gums. As this “attack” on teeth and gums continue, there is a greater risk for cavities, receding gums, and access to the tooth’s root and even jawbone.
For other individuals, dry mouth may be the main contributor to bad breath. Medications, salivary gland conditions, and mouth breathing can all lead to dry mouth. To better understand, the production of saliva is important to regulate acid levels in the oral cavity caused by the presence of plaque. Saliva also plays a key role in washing away dead cells on soft tissues including the tongue, cheeks, and gums. Otherwise, when cells are not removed, they decompose and begin to smell.
Aside from the buildup of toxins and dry mouth, systemic diseases and even illnesses may contribute to bad breath. These include:
- Respiratory Tract Infections
- Pneumonia
- Bronchitis
- Sinus Infections
- Diabetes
- GERD or Acid Reflux Disease
- Liver Disease
- Kidney Disease
Gaining Control Of Bad Breath
Without question, regular visits to the dentist are key to gaining control of bad breath. Even if an individual’s breath condition is due to an underlying disease, dentists provide invaluable knowledge and resources needed to manage breath and keep it fresh. While replacing one’s toothbrush, committing to better oral care, stopping smoking, or drinking more water is enough to combat bad breath for some, others require specialized treatment pertaining to other health concerns. Either way, dentists remain in a unique position to empower patients in the fight against bad breath.
Dr. Ashish Patel and the team at Lawrenceville Family Dental Care welcome patients of all ages to our Gwinnett practice, where we value comprehensive dental care that is tailored to your needs. When it comes to bad breath, we understand that this can be an embarrassing condition. Yet, we want you to know—at Lawrenceville Family Dental Care you’ll find a welcoming and compassionate team with a commitment to dental excellence and professional, comfortable care. We can’t wait to hear from you!
Posted on behalf of Lawrenceville Family Dental Care
