Bad breath can be embarrassing and may keep people from getting too close, but did you know your bad breath may be a symptom of a more serious dental health concern?
Of course, temporary bad breath caused by your lunch or morning coffee can be cleared up with a swish of mouthwash or sugar-free gum. But if brushing and good oral hygiene do not eradicate your smelly breath you may consider speaking to your dentist.
What your bad breath may say about your oral health
Tooth Decay: Ultimately, bad breath is caused by bacteria and so is tooth decay. If you have an untreated dental cavity, you may experience a consistent metallic flavor or smell in your mouth. Often times chronic halitosis is a symptom of tooth decay, and may lead to more necessary procedures, like a root canal.
Dr. Bourgeouis offers solutions for treating decayed teeth. Treatment for tooth decay will vary depending on the severity of the decay. Dental fillings, inlay or onlays or a root canal and dental crown can restore your tooth and clear up your bad breath.
Dry Mouth: Dry mouth occurs when your mouth is not being supplied with sufficient saliva flow. Saliva plays an important role in keeping oral bacteria under control and helps rinse debris and food particles from the surfaces of your teeth. Dry mouth could be caused by dehydration or could be a side effect of certain medications. Other patients are simply more prone to dry mouth and should visit the dentist on a more frequent basis. Patients with dry mouth are likely to develop tooth decay from the lack of saliva.
Routine visits to Sudbury Dental Arts can help you keep your dry mouth in check. Dr. Bourgeouis can make personalized recommendations on how to moisturize your mouth. We may recommend a prescription mouth-wash and encourage all patients to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Poor Oral Hygiene: One of the most common causes of halitosis is poor oral hygiene. Poor oral hygiene is also a leading culprit for causing tooth decay- and, you guessed it, dry mouth. Brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day for a full two minutes is key in keeping your breath fresh and teeth and gums healthy.
