Chronic Bad Breath

Treatments for Chronic Bad Breath

Everyone has experienced bad breath at some point. For example, eating onions, garlic, or other strong foods can result in temporary bad breath. However, halitosis—or chronic bad breath—can be embarrassing. More importantly, the condition can be indicative of a more serious underlying issue, such as systemic disease or periodontal issues. Dr. Chetan S. Patil can treat chronic bad breath and related conditions.

Common Causes Of Bad Breath

There are plenty of reasons why bad breath can occur.

Some of the most common include:

Gum disease and tooth decay: Both periodontal disease and tooth decay are caused by oral bacteria. As the bacteria break down the food particles, a foul odor is released. The longer gum disease and tooth decay are left untreated, the worse your breath will become.

Dry mouth: Patients who suffer from xerostomia, or dry mouth, are more prone to chronic bad breath. This condition can also exacerbate decay and gum disease, resulting in a harmful cycle.

Tobacco products: It is no surprise that smoking causes bad breath. However, the use of tobacco products can also aggravate the symptoms of periodontal disease, which can cause bad breath to worsen.

Systemic issues: Certain medical conditions – particularly those related to the throat, sinuses, lungs, and digestion – can result in chronic bad breath.

Bad Breath Treatments

If chronic bad breath is due to periodontal disease, scaling and root planing, gum flap surgery, or other gum treatments are necessary to eradicate the bacteria. If halitosis is the result of extensive tooth decay, restorative treatments will be recommended to restore your smile. During a consultation, Dr. Patil can identify the cause of your bad breath and design a treatment plan to address your needs.

If chronic bad breath is due to a systemic condition, it is important to speak with your primary care physician about your symptoms.

Tips For Treating Bad Breath At Home

Professional treatments are essential for healthy teeth and gums. However, it is also important to practice good hygiene habits at home. For example:

• Brush Your Teeth At Least Two Times Every Day, Ideally After Every Meal.
• Floss Your Teeth Once A Day.
• Avoid Sugary And Starchy Foods.
• If You Use Tobacco Products Of Any Kind, Stop.
• Drink Plenty Of Water.
• Consume Sodas And Carbonated Beverages In Moderation.
• Choose Sugarless Gum And Mints
• Attend Routine Dental Cleanings And Examinations.

Contact Us To Learn More

In many cases, curing bad breath can be as simple as changing your diet or improving your oral hygiene. But for some patients, it will require professional intervention to halt the progression of gum disease, tooth decay, or other issues. To learn more about bad breath treatments offered at Periodontal Associates, schedule an appointment with Dr. Strauss.