I Have Chronic Bad Breath: Do I Need to See a Dentist?
Chronic bad breath can be a worrisome problem. However, it can also be a sign of something more serious.
If you have chronic bad breath that won't go away with proper oral hygiene, it may be time for a dental exam at Smile Montreal in Westmount, QC, to determine if it is a sign of a more serious oral health issue.
Here, we will explore the reasons why you should see a dentist if you suffer from chronic bad breath.
Bad Breath and Potential Causes
Bad breath can be caused by something as simple as the food you eat. For example, garlic can cause bad breath. However, if bad breath is caused by food, it should go away once you brush and floss your teeth. Chronic bad breath is something that happens consistently or does not go away with good oral hygiene. Bad breath can be the symptom of several oral health issues, such as:
- Tooth decay
- Gum disease
- Infection
- Plaque build-up
- Medications
- Other health concerns
If there is an underlying oral health concern, such as infection, it is best to address it as soon as possible. Even something as simple as plaque build-up can worsen without treatment, leading to serious issues like advanced gum disease, tooth decay, and even tooth loss.
It is important that you inform your dentist of any health issues or medications you are taking, as these can also be the cause of chronic bad breath.
I Don't Have Any Other Symptoms. Is Bad Breath Really That Serious?
This is a valid question. Patients often state that bad breath is their only concern, and while it is worrisome, it doesn't seem serious.
However, chronic bad breath can be an early indication of general health issues that affect the respiratory system or digestive tract. It is always best to catch these issues as soon as possible to prevent them from getting worse and ensure the least invasive treatment possible.
For example, if you have an infection in your tooth root, you may not initially experience pain. Left untreated, this can become especially painful and spread to other areas of the mouth. By addressing it early, we can prevent a painful tooth from developing or infecting other areas in your mouth. Early intervention can save you time, money, and pain.
How Does My Dentist Diagnose an Issue Causing Bad Breath?
During your consultation, the dentist will first examine your mouth for common issues. We may then take x-rays and other images of your mouth. Our Montreal dental office in Westmount uses i-CAT® Technology, which uses 3D imaging to generate a complete view of the jawbone. We also use intraoral cameras to create detailed images of your mouth.
This technology helps us see issues that may not be easily seen with the naked eye and allows us to precisely plan your treatment. If an issue such as decay or infection is detected, it may be addressed on the same day, or we may need to schedule another appointment.
Don't Live With Chronic Bad Breath
If you have chronic bad breath, it is always best to have your dentist rule out any issues. A simple exam can protect you and prevent further oral health issues from developing. Get started by requesting an appointment today.
