Bad breath, or halitosis, is an embarrassing and distressing issue that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. It occurs when volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) build up in the mouth due to various factors such as poor oral hygiene, gum disease, dry mouth, dietary choices, certain medical conditions, and even mental health. The VSCs responsible for bad breath are produced by bacteria in the mouth breaking down food particles, especially proteins and sugars. When left untreated or poorly managed, persistent bad breath can lead to social anxiety, self-consciousness about interacting with others face-to-face or over video calls. It may even affect personal relationships or professional opportunities. Causes of halitosis include
- Poor dental hygiene: Neglecting to brush and floss regularly allows bacteria to multiply, producing foul-smelling byproducts.
- Tongue coating: A thick layer of debris on the tongue harbors malodorous microorganisms.
- Dry mouth: Insufficient saliva reduces natural cleansing and antibacterial properties.
- Dietary factors: Consuming strong-smelling or spicy foods without proper cleaning can linger on teeth/gums.
- Medical conditions: Certain systemic issues like gum disease, sinus infections, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
In our appointments, we will assess your plaque buildup and look for any signs of periodontal disease during the initial examination. Then, a professional cleaning and polishing using a combination of contemporary dentistry procedures will be done to improve your breath. Medical advice may be necessary from your doctor for treating underlying gastroenteric issues.