Halitosis

What is halitosis?

Halitosis causes chronic bad breath that doesn’t improve with routine oral hygiene. Unlike bad breath caused by certain foods or smoking, halitosis is often linked to medical issues like gum disease and bacterial buildup that require professional treatment.

What are the symptoms of halitosis?

Halitosis symptoms include:

• Persistent bad breath
• Noticeable odor even after brushing and flossing
• Post-nasal drip or mucus in your throat
• Dry mouth
• A metallic or bitter taste in your mouth

Some people with halitosis experience related oral symptoms, including swollen red gums and a white or yellow coating on the tongue.

What causes halitosis?

The Marvel Dental team treats halitosis caused by various things, including:

Tobacco use

Smoking and chewing tobacco cause an unpleasant mouth odor. These habits also increase the risk of gum disease, which is another common cause of bad breath.

Dry mouth

Also known as xerostomia, dry mouth occurs when saliva production is lower than average. Saliva helps remove food particles and bacteria from the teeth and gums. Without adequate saliva production, you’re more likely to experience bad breath. 

Oral infections

Oral infections, like gingivitis and periodontitis, cause harmful bacteria to collect between your teeth and underneath your gums. These microorganisms cause inflammation, lead to gum recession, and increase the risk of bad breath.

Certain medications

Some prescription medications, like antihistamines and antidepressants, cause dry mouth. When the body breaks down medicines, it releases chemicals that can contribute to bad breath.

How is halitosis diagnosed?

Your Marvel Dental provider reviews your dental records and completes an oral exam. They check for common causes of bad breath, such as gum disease, tooth decay, and dry mouth. They also examine your tongue for excessive buildup and use specialized tools to assess your breath’s odor.

How is halitosis treated?

The Marvel Dental team takes a conservative, integrative approach to treating halitosis. They could suggest:

• Improved oral hygiene to eliminate odor-causing bacteria
• Professional dental cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup
• Scaling and root planing to treat periodontal (gum) disease
• Increased hydration
• Medication to stimulate saliva production
• Lifestyle and dietary changes, like quitting smoking and avoiding certain foods

Professional treatment is crucial for halitosis, which may indicate underlying medical issues. The Marvel Dental team can develop a personalized treatment plan that freshens your breath and promotes optimal oral health.

Call the nearest Marvel Dental office today to schedule a halitosis consultation, or book your appointment online.