The third most common reason to visit the dentist is to treat halitosis or bad breath. Although oral malodor can be caused by a number of reasons, the complaint of persistent bad breath can involve serious medical disorders that should not be ignored.
Most common causes for bad breath are associated with bacterial activity in the mouth and can be rectified by practicing more thorough oral and dental hygiene techniques. Certain foods like meat, fish, cheese, onions and garlic are known to cause bad breath. Sulfur compounds released by anaerobic bacteria can cause the smell of rotten eggs that is particularly repulsive. Smoking, consumption of alcohol and obesity can also cause halitosis. Weight loss diets like Atkins diet that advocates consumption of low levels of carbohydrates can also result in bad breath. In the absence of carbohydrates, proteins and fats are broken down by the digestive system. Breakdown of fats results in the release of ketones that cause bad breath. Breakdown of proteins into amino acids and further break down of amino acids can result in emission of foul gases like hydrogen sulfide and methyl mercaptan. These conditions cannot be fixed with improved brushing and oral hygiene measures. Drinking plenty of water can reduce the intensity of foul odor. Cleaning the tongue can often control halitosis. The bacteria that release sulfur compounds must be removed from the tongue surface to control halitosis that originates in the mouth and tongue.
Periodontal disease can often cause halitosis. Infections in the gums and pus formation can leave a bad taste and bad mouth odor. Tartar or calculus (calcified hardened plaque) can also promote bad breath. Removal of tartar can help your breath get better. Sinus infections in the nose and tonsilloliths (bits of calcified material in the tonsil area) can also be the cause of bad breath. A dentist can help in alleviating many of these problems.
A condition of the esophagus called Zenker’s diverticulum or even GERD can cause bad breath in some instances. The stomach is very rarely responsible for halitosis.
In very rare instances, systemic diseases can also be responsible for halitosis. Liver failure, diabetes, carcinoma, renal infections, renal failure and infections of the lower respiratory tract can also cause a foul odor in the mouth. If your dentist cannot detect any dental and oral reasons for you bad breath, systemic diseases may be the cause for halitosis.
If you suffer from persistent and chronic halitosis, you could be suffering from a serious disease. Do not ignore symptoms and see a dentist. Easton residents can find qualified dentists in the area offering treatment in general dentistry and control of halitosis.
Dentist Easton– If you are looking for a dentist, Easton-based 25th Street Easton Dental offers affordable high quality treatment for all the family. Call 484-544-0059.
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