We all know someone who we wish would take a breath mint. Bad breath is joked about on television and in social circles, but if you’re the one they’re talking about; it’s not so funny. Don’t despair because there are some easy solutions and dental treatments for bad breath.
Bad breath, or halitosis, is a problem that has many possible causes. The first, and easiest to solve, is simply poor cleaning of the teeth and mouth. Food particles remain in your teeth and attract oral bacteria. Keeping your teeth and tongue clean with regular brushing and flossing can keep this source of bad breath under control. Yes, it feels funny, but don’t forget to brush your tongue, too. A dentist can show you the best way to keep your mouth and teeth perfectly clean. Regular dental cleanings and treatments can help prevent bad breath.
Periodontal disease will also contribute to bad breath. This is a serious condition that will cause the gums to recede as bacteria attacks them and the teeth. You will need a dentist to diagnose this and to offer a dental treatment for bad breath. Your dentist may send you to a periodontist. Gum surgery may be necessary to eliminate pockets of oral bacteria. You must maintain good oral hygiene to help prevent its return. Periodontal disease is about more than tooth loss and bad breath. It can also lead to heart disease when the bacteria enter the bloodstream.
If you smoke, you may be suffering from halitosis. Nicotine sticks to your teeth and allows bacteria to grow. A dry mouth, for whatever reason, can also allow oral bacteria to grow as saliva is not available to wash it away. A side effect of many medications is a dry mouth. It’s also the source of “morning breath.” Your dentist may suggest you rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash or other dental treatment.
Some bodily diseases can also cause bad breath so after you’ve ruled out oral causes like those mentioned above, be sure to check with your family doctor. Some chronic conditions like diabetes and kidney disease can cause bad breath and you will need your doctor to determine what means for your condition.
Face it. If you’ve just had a big piece of 40-garlic-clove chicken, mouthwash is only going to mask the odor for a while. As you exhale, the odor will continue to be exhaled as well. The solution for that is to make sure your companion for the evening has the same dish. If it continues, start with a dentist for the best dental treatment for bad breath.
Cosmetic dentists use treatments such as
teeth whitening and placement of
dental implants to improve your smile's appearance.
