Chronic bad breath, medically known as halitosis, can be an embarrassing condition. Unlike temporary bad breath that results from consuming certain foods or drinks, halitosis persists even after brushing and using mouthwash.
If you are experiencing chronic bad breath, you might be wondering if a dentist can help treat the root causes of this condition. Fortunately, the answer is yes, and understanding the potential causes and treatments can lead you to fresher breath and improved self-confidence.
Here’s how your dentist can help treat causes of chronic bad breath.
Comprehensive Oral Health Exam
A dentist will conduct a thorough examination of your mouth, teeth, gums, and tongue to identify any signs of oral health issues that could be causing bad breath, such as cavities or gum disease.
There are many potential causes of chronic bad breath, including:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Gum disease
- Dry mouth
- Medical conditions
- Tobacco products
- Improper cleaning of dentures
By identifying potential causes, your dentist can develop an effective treatment plan to address the root causes and improve your bad breath [1].
Professional Teeth Cleaning
Regular professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar that traditional brushing and flossing can miss. This is crucial not only for maintaining a healthy mouth but also for preventing odor-causing bacteria from proliferating.
For people with gum disease or those who need a deep cleaning, your dentist may recommend a root planing and scaling, which is a more intensive procedure that helps clear away bacteria and plaque beneath the gumline [2].
If it’s been more than six months since you’ve had your teeth cleaned, it’s time to schedule an appointment to keep your teeth and gums healthy and reduce potential causes of chronic bad breath.
Tongue Exfoliation
Your dentist may recommend or perform a professional tongue exfoliation to help with bad breath that won’t go away. The surface of the tongue can harbor bacteria and food particles, creating a breeding ground for bad breath. For some people, simple tongue brushing or scraping isn’t enough to remove built-up bacteria on the tongue. Exfoliating the tongue can significantly reduce these bacteria and help in managing halitosis.
Recommendations for Improved Oral Hygiene
In addition to identifying and treating underlying causes of chronic bad breath, dentists can offer personalized advice on oral hygiene products and practices that can help freshen your breath, including:
- Specialized mouthwashes designed for halitosis
- Flossing techniques to reach difficult areas
- Suggestions for dietary changes that can minimize bad breath
Identifying Other Health Concerns
If dental issues aren’t the primary cause of your bad breath, a dentist may refer you to a physician to investigate other potential medical conditions, such as diabetes, underlying kidney or liver disease, or even gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), all of which can cause persistent bad breath [3]. Coordinated care between your dentist and general healthcare provider can result in a more comprehensive approach to treatment.
Take Action Now
Chronic bad breath can affect your confidence and quality of life, but you don’t have to live with it. Visit your dentist for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan. They can provide the expertise and care needed to address the root causes of halitosis and restore freshness to your breath. Contact your dentist today to schedule an appointment and start the journey to a healthier, more confident you.
Sources:
- https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/halitosis-bad-breath
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/23983-tooth-scaling-and-root-planing
- https://www.nm.org/healthbeat/healthy-tips/surprising-causes-of-bad-breath
