I have bad breath.
Characteristics & what to look for
Bad breath, also referred to as halitosis, is a symptom that you or someone in your life may have noticed. Like all symptoms, bad breath can be a red flag for many other underlying conditions that need further attention.
Causes of bad breath
Bad breath can be caused by many different sources, some of which include:
- Poor dental hygiene
- Food
- Tobacco use
- Dry mouth
- Infections in your mouth
- Tonsillar stones
- Sinus drainage
- Acid reflux
- Diabetes
- Various other conditions
What you can do at home to help ease the symptom
Gums and mints act as a means to temporarily camouflage your bad breath but don’t actually treat the cause. Improving oral hygiene with adequate brushing, flossing, mouthwash, and cleaning the tongue often improves bad breath. Dentures, retainers, and other oral appliances can also harbor odor-causing bacteria, so they must be adequately cleaned as well.
Treatment and how we can help
If your bad breath doesn’t improve with lifestyle changes within a few weeks, a consultation with our office is recommended. Treatment for bad breath starts with determining the cause of the bad breath. Treating cavities, periodontal disease, oral infections, or dry mouth are essential to conquering bad breath. If we have addressed all possible mouth-related causes of bad breath, then we may refer you to a physician for further evaluation of your condition.
Long term effects if left untreated and negative progression
Not determining this underlying condition could result in further progression of the disease. There is also the social and emotional impact of bad breath. Please make a consultation with our office if you need help determining the cause of your bad breath. Let us help you get on the path of a healthy, fresh mouth and body.