Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is an embarrassing condition that is more common than most people realize. Outside of poor dental hygiene, there are medical concerns that can cause a person’s breath to smell rancid and unpleasant. When brushing, flossing, mints and gum are not sending bad breath away, it may be time to seek help from the General Dentist Oahu. A dentist can diagnose what is causing a person to suffer from bad breath so it can be properly treated.
Common causes of bad breath include:
* Dry mouth is one of the most common causes of bad breath. When saliva levels are normal, they help to keep the bacteria in the mouth under control. Unfortunately, the chronic dry mouth can be caused by illness and some medications. When saliva levels are lowered, the bacteria in the mouth begin to multiply in great numbers. This can cause foul breath that is difficult to overcome. The General Dentist Oahu can prescribe moisturizing mouth rinses that help to curb the problem.
* Dry mouth can also be caused by decay. When decay strikes a tooth or teeth, it can cause the tooth to begin to rot. This rotting tooth tissue causes foul breath to occur. Until the tooth is filled, the smell will only worsen. This is why it is important people see their dentist as soon as they begin to notice the signs of a cavity. Prompt treatment can stop bad breath right away. Click here for more details.
* Fungal infections can also cause bad breath. When a person is suffering from thrush, this can lead to lesions on their tongue and cheeks. These infections must be brought under control to stop the odors from occurring.
* Bad breath may also be a sign that a tooth has become abscessed. An abscess is an infection in the tooth that needs to be treated right away before the infection spreads to other teeth and the gums. Once the pus has been drained and the infection healed, this should stop bad breath odors.
Since bad breath may be a sign of serious oral health concerns, it is imperative people seek dental treatment to find the cause.
