Bad Breath in Plantation, FL

Hi, my name is Dr. Saba Rizvi with My Dentist For Life, and today I'm going to be talking about bad breath in hopes of answering some of the most commonly asked questions.

What is bad breath and how is it defined clinically?

Bad breath is the presence of an unpleasant odor coming from one's mouth, noticeable to others. Clinically, it's defined as consistent, persistent bad breath, and is also called halitosis.

What are the most common causes of bad breath?

The most common causes of bad breath are poor oral hygiene, gum disease, dry mouth, certain foods, smoking, and some medical conditions such as GERD, diabetes, or sinus infections.

What is halitosis and how is it different from occasional bad breath?

Halitosis is persistent bad breath. It differs from occasional bad breath, which can result from certain foods like onions. It could also be morning breath when your mouth is dry and the pH drops, or if you just didn't brush that day, causing temporary bad breath.

Can cavities or tooth decay cause bad breath?

Absolutely. Cavities can cause bad breath because they are bacterial infections that eat away at the tooth, leading to bad breath.

Can wisdom teeth contribute to bad breath?

Wisdom teeth can contribute to bad breath if they are in a bad position, accumulating plaque and bacteria, or causing infection, possibly even an abscess, leading to bad breath.

Is it normal to have bad breath after a tooth extraction?

Yes, it is normal to have bad breath after a tooth extraction because the area is healing and may be inflamed, accumulating bacteria. It's harder to clean, so temporarily, you may have some bad breath.

What are some signs that bad breath might be chronic rather than occasional?

Signs of chronic bad breath include gums that bleed when you brush and floss, and gums that are puffy and swollen, indicating a chronic gum infection. This is treatable, but it's important to monitor.

What dental treatments are available for bad breath?

The dental treatment available for bad breath includes gum therapy to clean up calcifications of bacteria under the gum line. Removing faulty restorations, such as old fillings and crowns that have accumulated bacteria, also helps.

What kind of mouthwash or toothpaste do you recommend for treating?

I recommend mouthwash without alcohol because alcohol reduces the pH content in your mouth, drying it out and leading to bad breath. The toothpaste I recommend is called CariFree.

What are some home remedies that might help reduce bad breath?

Home remedies include rinsing with warm salty water and using a mixture of baking soda and peroxide to form a paste, which can be used as toothpaste.

How can someone tell if they have bad breath?

If you swallow and taste something bitter or sour, it could indicate that you have bad breath.

Is it possible to get rid of bad breath permanently?

Yes, you can get rid of bad breath permanently. Ensure you stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water to maintain a healthy pH in your mouth. Practice proper home care by brushing twice a day, flossing once a day, and using a water pick. Regular dental visits for checkups, x-rays, and cleanings, along with a healthy diet, are also important.

I hope I was able to answer some of the most commonly asked questions about bad breath. If you have any additional questions or are ready to take action, please give us a call at (954) 833-4998. We are here to help.