Bad breath is a common dental health concern that can cause significant embarrassment. Often times poor oral hygiene causes bad breath, or potent foods like garlic and onions. If a good toothbrush and flossing stops your bad breath, you most likely have nothing to worry about.
However, you may have an underlying oral health concern if you experience chronic halitosis. The presence of tooth decay, gum disease, and other health conditions often leads to bad breath. Dry mouth and bacteria byproducts can also cause halitosis. Systemic health concerns may also cause bad breath, such as acid reflux and GERD.
Routine oral health exams help Dr. Ali Sarkarzadeh diagnose the cause of your bad breath. We can provide halitosis treatments as soon as possible for a chance at effective and conservative treatment. If your bad breath is because of a medical condition, we can work with you to stop it and avoid future oral health problems.
Causes of Halitosis
A thorough dental exam from Dr. Sarkarzadeh or Dr. Farzin can determine the cause of your bad breath. If your teeth and gums are in good health, Dr. Sarkarzadeh may refer you to your general physician. Common oral health issues that cause bad breath include gum disease, dry mouth, and dental cavities.
Gum Disease
Gum disease is a progressive bacterial infection of the gums. Over time, bacteria multiply and spread, forming deep pockets on the inside of the gums. Gum disease is a common cause of gum recession, tooth loss, bone deterioration, and even systemic health concerns.
Chronic bad breath is a common side effect of periodontal disease. Bacteria leave behind an acidic byproduct that produces a pungent smell. Dr. Sarkarzadeh and Dr. Farzin offer comprehensive periodontal therapy to help patients eradicate gum disease-causing oral bacteria. The best way to prevent gum disease is with good oral health routines, regular visits to the dentist, and a healthy diet.
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth is the result of low saliva production, or xerostomia. Dehydration, certain medications, and medical conditions can all cause dry mouth. Saliva is the body’s natural defense against bacteria build-up. Saliva is necessary to keep oral bacteria in check and maintain good oral health.
Dry mouth commonly leads to tooth decay, which can also cause halitosis. To combat dry mouth, follow these tips:
- Drink plenty of water to maintain adequate saliva production and hydration.
- Chew sugar-free gum or lozenges to stimulate saliva production. Look for products containing xylitol, because it has has anti-bacterial properties.
- Avoid consuming drying substances like alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco products. Additionally, avoiding spicy and salty foods can maintain moisture in the mouth.
- Consult with your primary care doctor if you suspect that medication might be causing your dry mouth. They can provide alternative medications or suggest ways to manage dry mouth symptoms effectively.
Dental Cavities
Tooth decay can cause a lingering metallic taste and smell in your mouth. The bacteria that causes tooth decay creates a potent and smelly by-product, and halitosis. If you feel tenderness or sensitivity in a tooth and have a persistent odor, visit Congressional Dental Care. Early diagnosis and intervention can prevent the need for complex dental treatments such as root canals and tooth extraction.
Treating Bad Breath in Rockville, MD
If halitosis is a concern for you, we can provide you with effective treatment for bad breath in Rockville, MD. Our dental team will start by finding the cause. A thorough cleaning can help remove plaque or food particles that contribute to the odor in most cases. However, there may be a more serious cause for bad breath for others.
In cases of gum disease, we will suggest a better oral hygiene routine. You may also need periodontal disease therapy. We will show you specific mouthwashes or toothpaste to use that are designed to combat bad breath. Sometimes, you may need to make dietary changes or adjust certain habits to improve your breath. With their expertise, they can provide a personalized plan to freshen your breath and keep your mouth healthy.
Bad Breath FAQs
Bad breath is a common concern for many of our patients. We understand that having fresh breath is important for your confidence and overall well-being. Here, we address some frequently asked questions about halitosis and provide insights into its causes and effective solutions.
What can bad breath be a sign of?
Bad breath can be a sign of a large variety of things. It may be as simple as an unaddressed tooth cavity, or a more severe issue like an inflamed throat. An inflamed throat could be a sign that a patient has allergies, sinus issues, or strep throat. Some cancers may cause patients to develop bad breath as well.
If you are concerned about your chronic bad breath, ask your dentist for their opinion to see whether it’s a health issue or not.
How can I permanently get rid of my bad breath?
Patients can try an assortment of methods to stop their bad breath. Begin by stepping up your oral hygiene routine. Get a soft-bristled toothbrush, brush three or more times a day, and floss multiple times every day. You can try mouth rinses, but don’t over do it because they can kill good bacteria too.
Be sure to brush your tongue to kill any bacteria that may still be lingering. A tongue scraper is a great product that can help you clean your tongue. Adjusting your diet to more natural, and less processed foods is another great way to stop bad breath.
Does apple cider vinegar help bad breath?
An apple cider vinegar rinse can help get rid of many bad breath issues. This works by balancing the levels of PH inside your mouth and throat. Unbalanced PH levels is a recipe for bad breath, so leveling them out is a great way to stop halitosis.
Is bad breath a sign of a health problem?
Yes, halitosis can sometimes indicate that you have an underlying health issue. It might be a sign of certain medical conditions or infections. For instance, persistent bad breath is linked to gum disease, diabetes, and even liver and kidney problems. If you are concerned about your breath, it’s a good idea to chat with your dentist or doctor to rule out any potential health concerns and find the right treatment.
Does bad breath mean I have gum disease?
Not necessarily. While bad breath can be a symptom of gum disease, there are other causes. Gum disease often causes other noticeable issues, like red, swollen, or bleeding gums. Bad breath could also be due to other factors, such as certain foods, bad oral hygiene, or dry mouth. If you have concerns about your breath, call us today to book an appointment to receive an appropriate diagnosis.
Schedule A Dental Exam Today! Find the Best Treatment for Bad Breath in Rockville, MD
If you are experiencing persistent bad breath, contact our Rockville, MD, dental office, or request an appointment online. Our dental health care team will help you determine how to best freshen your breath and restore your oral health. We welcome new patients of all ages from Rockville, Bethesda, Silver Spring, Chevy Chase, Aspen Hill, Rollins Park, and surrounding communities.