Halitosis, which is the technical way we say “bad breath” and a condition suffered by many people who experience social anxiety about their halitosis problem says a dentist in Grand Rapids dental practice. Here in Grand Rapids, we are like any other city with the possibility of smelly breath being a more frequent concern especially when it comes to contact during social or professional interactions. What is halitosis, what causes it, and how to avoid or combat stinking breath so you keep your loved ones nearby
What is Halitosis?
Halitosis is a clinical name for chronic bad breath that doesn’t disappear with regular brushing or cough drops. Most people will experience temporary bad breath from time to time, such as after eating a meal particularly high in garlic or onions and even first thing in the morning.
Major Factors Behind Halitosis
Bad breath can be caused by many factors, such as poor oral hygiene and medical conditions. It is important to know these causes as it will help in their prevention and treatment.
1. Poor Oral Hygiene
Most cases of bad breath are caused by poor oral hygiene. This rotting of food can become smelly. Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth may also cause gum disease and subsequent bad breath with prolonged buildup.
2. Diet
Certain foods like garlic, onions, and spicy dishes are well known for causing bad breath. They go to your lungs where they seep into the bloodstream — and then out through breath, contributing very noticeable smell.
3. Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
Saliva is very important in oral hygiene because it washes away food and the acid formed by the bacteria. A rarer cause is dry mouth, which can occur due to decreased saliva production allowing bacteria to colonize and causing bad breath.
4. Tobacco Use
This includes smoking and smokeless forms of tobacco, such as chew (snuff), or hookah. Smoking can not only cause bad breath; however, it affects our health in many ways
5. Health Issues
Bad breath can be caused by several medical illnesses, including sinus infections, lung infections, gastrointestinal disorders, diabetes, and problems with the liver or kidneys. These circumstances might result in unusual smells or encourage the growth of germs in the mouth.
How to Get Halitosis Treatment in Grand Rapids
Sometimes good oral hygiene practices aren’t enough to eliminate chronic bad breath, and professional intervention is needed. We will diagnose and treat the causes of your halitosis in Grand Rapids, with a variety of dental professionals. Possible treatment options are:
1. Dental Treatment
- Professional cleaning: A dental hygienist can help treat your bad breath and oral gum disease. Your dentist may also suggest special gum treatments to deal with any underlying problems.
- Restorative Procedures: If tooth decay or damaged dental work is the cause of bad breath, restorative procedures (fillings, crowns, and replacements) may be indicated.
2. Medical Treatment
- Handling Underlying Conditions: Your doctor may recommend drugs or other therapies to treat the underlying medical problem that is causing your halitosis to control the foul breath.
- Referral to a Specialist: In certain situations, your dentist could recommend that you see a specialist for additional assessment and care, such as a periodontist.
A disconcerting disorder that might impair your social connections and self-esteem is halitosis. You may, however, continue to have fresh breath and a healthy mouth by being aware of its causes and implementing preventative and treatment measures. Do not hesitate to seek advice and treatment from a dentist if you reside in Grand Rapids and are worried about recurrent bad breath. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, together with routine dental checkups and proper oral hygiene, is essential to preventing halitosis and maintaining the brightness and freshness of your smile.
