Persistent Bad Breath: Possible Causes and Effective Treatment Options

Bad breath is a common problem. It is usually blamed on something you ate or on lapsed oral hygiene. However, in some cases, bad breath can be a sign of an oral health issue. 

At the Center for Implant & Esthetic Dentistry, our prosthodontist, Dr. Ramin Mahallati, and our team offer a range of preventive and restorative dentistry services at our Beverly Hills, California, office.

What is causing your bad breath?

Like many oral health problems, a common cause of bad breath is poor oral hygiene. The food particles and bacteria that eventually cause cavities and gum disease can also create bad breath. 

Brushing after meals and flossing once daily is your best defense against bad breath, cavities, gum disease, and other oral and overall health problems.

Speaking of gum disease, persistent bad breath may also indicate gingivitis (the first stage of gum disease) or advanced periodontal disease. 

If you notice symptoms like bleeding, swollen gums, or persistent bad breath, schedule an appointment for a dental exam. When caught and treated early, gingivitis is usually reversible and is less likely to cause long-term damage.

If it’s been more than six months since your last trip to the dentist, schedule an appointment for a checkup and cleaning.

Other common possible causes of bad breath include:

• Dry mouth
• Smoking
• Health conditions like a cold or respiratory infection, diabetes, certain types of cancer
• GERD
• Certain medications 

Contact us if you have any questions or concerns about your oral health.

Treating for bad breath

Good oral hygiene combined with regular dental cleanings are the best preventive measures.

If you smoke or use tobacco products, you’re at risk for more than just bad breath. Smoking can increase your risk of serious health problems and also make it challenging to treat oral health issues. 

In addition to practicing good oral hygiene and eating a healthy diet, stay hydrated by drinking enough water to keep the saliva flowing and prevent food particles from sticking to your teeth.

If an underlying oral health issue causes your bad breath, treatment may help to improve it.

Why you shouldn’t ignore persistent bad breath

Oral health conditions like tooth decay and gum disease, which cause bad breath, will worsen if left untreated. While gingivitis can be reversed when caught and treated early, advanced gum disease causes irreversible damage to the gums and can even cause tooth loss.

Bad breath can be an early sign to get treatment for oral health issues that can become more invasive and expensive to treat in the future.

For more information about preventing and eliminating bad breath and improving your oral health, contact the Center for Implant & Esthetic Dentistry today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Mahallati at our Beverly Hills office.