Halitosis

Bad Breath (Halitosis) Can Mean Poor Oral Health

Although periodontal diseases have been traditionally associated with halitosis (persistent bad breath), individuals with healthy-looking oral tissues can suffer from severe halitosis. The odor of the breath is like that of someone with severe periodontal disease.

Even the most meticulous brushing and flossing will not get rid of bad breath and periodontal disease. In fact, many bad breath sufferers have healthy-looking mouths and impeccable oral care habits.

Research shows that 75% of the population suffers from some form of periodontal disease, and about 50% from halitosis or a bad taste problem. Both are evidence of an oral infection. So it’s no surprise that millions of dollars are spent annually for over-the-counter rinses and breath products that only briefly mask odors without eliminating the underlying infection: oral bacteria that are persistent, resistant, and resilient.

The OraVital^® System that Dr Mark Richardson Dental uses to treat patients is a unique, non-surgical oral treatment that successfully removes the problem-causing bacteria.

What Causes Halitosis?

Gum disease and halitosis, or persistent bad breath, is an oral infection caused by the same overgrowth of anaerobic bacteria in the mouth even in healthy mouths. It may not be your fault.

OraVital treatment controls the bacterial overgrowth and returns your mouth to a healthy state with no more bad breath.

If quick bad breath fixes are only covering up the problem for a short time, something else may be happening in your body, including:

• Dental Issues: Cavities and deeper pockets from gum disease give bad breath bacteria extra places to hide in your mouth that are difficult to clear out when you’re brushing or cleaning between your teeth. Either can contribute to halitosis.
• Mouth, Nose, and Throat Infections: According to the Mayo Clinic, nose, sinus, and throat issues that can lead to postnasal drip may also contribute to bad breath. Bacteria feeds on mucus your body produces when it’s battling a sinus infection, leaving you sniffly and stinky.
• Dry mouth: Saliva goes a long way toward maintaining your dental health — and your breath. It rinses and removes unwanted leftovers from your mouth, helps break down food when you eat, and provides disease-fighting substances to help prevent cavities and infections. If you don’t make enough saliva, one sign may be halitosis. Dry mouth can be caused by medications, certain medical conditions, alcohol use, tobacco use, or excessive caffeine.
• Smoking and tobacco: Tobacco products wreak havoc on your body and your breath. Not only do many tobacco products leave their own odor on your breath, they can also dry out your mouth. Smokers are also more likely to develop gum disease, which can add to halitosis.
• Other chronic conditions: While halitosis is most often linked to something happening in your mouth, it may also be a sign of gastric reflux, diabetes, liver problems, or kidney disease.

If you notice your bad breath persists, make an appointment with Dr Mark Richardson. Together, you can track down what the cause may be. With a proper cleaning and exam, Dr Richardson can help rule out any oral health problems and advise you on the next steps, including what types of dental products to use, treatment plans to take care of cavities or gum disease. Dr Richardson may also suggest the OraVital system.

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