Chronic Bad Breath: Causes and Treatment
At Smile Montreal, we provide a wide range of dental services for the entire family, including treatment for halitosis. While occasional halitosis is normal, chronic bad breath is a condition that typically points to serious oral health issues, such as periodontal disease. At our Montreal, QC, dental practice, Drs. Charles and Patrick Casey can treat chronic bad breath through a deep cleaning procedure known as scaling and root planing.
Occasional Halitosis vs Chronic Bad Breath
Certain foods can cause foul odors as they are broken down by digestion. This type of bad breath can be embarrassing, but it is normal, and fortunately, short-lived. However, chronic bad breath lingers, regardless of the foods you eat. This condition is usually indicative of a more serious oral health problem. It is important to address chronic bad breath right away in order to prevent more serious complications from occurring.
Common Causes of Chronic Bad Breath
Chronic bad breath can be caused by a number of factors. Some of the most common reasons include:
- Bacterial Infections: When plaque is not removed from the teeth through proper oral hygiene, bacteria begin to populate. As oral bacteria multiply and break down food, they emit an unpleasant odor. Extensive tooth decay and gum disease only make matters worse.
- Certain Medications: Some medications, such as antihistamines, can dry out the mouth. Chronic dry mouth can contribute to bad breath.
- Some Medical Conditions: Systemic conditions and other problems related to the lungs, digestive tract, throat, and sinuses can cause bad breath.
- Tobacco Use: Smoking not only causes bad breath, it also leads to a wide range of serious health complications.
- Alcohol: Heavy alcohol consumption can dry out the mouth, leaving a very distinct, unpleasant odor.
- Coffee: Like alcoholic beverages, coffee can also cause dry mouth. With insufficient saliva production, oral bacteria can cause a foul odor.
Treating Chronic Bad Breath
Bad breath in any form is a source of embarrassment. The good news, however, is that it is almost always treatable. The treatment recommended for you will depend on the root cause of chronic bad breath. For example, if decay or gum disease is the culprit, then Dr. Casey will recommend restorative treatments or periodontal care to eliminate infection.
Professional treatments will be combined with at-home care. Therefore, it is important that patients develop a healthy oral hygiene regimen, including brushing, flossing, and rinsing with antibacterial mouthwash. During a consultation at our practice, Dr. Casey will design a personalized plan just for you.
It is important to address chronic bad breath right away in order to prevent more serious complications from occurring.
If your chronic bad breath is caused by a medical or systemic condition, we recommend talking with your primary care physician. Together, you and your doctor can develop an effective plan to eliminate halitosis.
How to Prevent Chronic Bad Breath
Following a few guidelines can help patients prevent or manage bad breath at home. These guidelines include:
- Brush after every meal.
- Floss your teeth at least once a day.
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and consume sugary drinks in moderation.
- Quit smoking.
- Avoid eating a lot of sugary foods throughout the day.
- Have gum and mints handy.
- Avoid mouth-breathing if possible.
- Attend all routine examinations and cleanings.
Contact Smile Montreal Today
If you are experiencing symptoms of bad breath, schedule a visit to our practice today. Contact Smile Montreal online or call our dental practice at (514) 937-6558.
