BAD BREATH, A Topic That Can’t Be Ignored!

Bad breath can be socially debilitating. If we haven’t experienced it ourselves, we all know someone with it. It can be a very embarrassing condition. What’s important to know is that bad breath should be addressed as it can be a symptom of a health problem.

There are several causes of bad breath, also known as halitosis. Obvious causes include certain foods such as garlic or onions or smoking or chewing tobacco products. More serious conditions that can create bad breath include liver and kidney problems, pneumonia or bronchitis, chronic sinus infections, chronic acid reflux, postnasal drip, and diabetes.

At the dental office we see the most common causes of bad breath every day. Here are some:

• Dry Mouth (this can be caused by several common medications, decrease in salivary flow with age, salivary gland problems, or mouth breathing)
• Gum (Periodontal) Disease
• Yeast infections of the mouth
• Cavities
• Ill-fitting dentures
• Failing fillings or crowns
• Poor homecare, including not properly brushing the tongue and palate

A comprehensive dental exam will allow us to identify any of these causes and discuss options for treatment. So if you or someone you care about has bad breath, even if only periodically, it certainly warrants a dental visit! Call our office today and we will help restore confidence in your breath and your smile!